Philippine Airlines (PAL) has unveiled its near- and long-term fleet expansion plans, with the introduction of two additional aircraft in 2025, increasing its total fleet from 79 to 81 aircraft. This incremental growth is a prelude to a much larger fleet enhancement initiative that includes nine Airbus A350-1000s and thirteen A321neo aircraft in the coming years.
Cebu Pacific, the largest low-cost carrier in the Philippines, is considering additional narrowbody aircraft acquisitions before 2029, citing sustained passenger demand across its domestic and regional markets. This review comes on the heels of its record order for 152 Airbus A321neo aircraft, which reaffirmed its commitment to fleet standardization and capacity growth.
Philippine Airlines (PAL) has announced a codeshare partnership with Saudia, enhancing connectivity for passengers traveling between the Philippines and Saudi Arabia. The agreement covers select routes operated by Saudia, allowing Philippine Airlines customers to book flights on Saudia’s network under PAL’s flight code.
Sunlight Air, a boutique airline based in the Philippines, has expanded its fleet with the delivery of its fourth aircraft, an ATR72-600, procured directly from ATR. This new addition underscores the airline’s commitment to enhancing inter-island connectivity and catering to the growing demand for regional air travel.
HAECO, a global provider of aircraft engineering and maintenance services based in Hong Kong, has entered into a new agreement with PAL Express, the low-cost carrier of Philippine Airlines, to provide base maintenance services for its narrowbody fleet of Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft. The agreement will commence in 2025, further solidifying HAECO’s presence in the Asia-Pacific region.
SEAir International, a Philippine-based carrier, has achieved a significant milestone by placing its first Boeing 737-800QC, identified by serial number 23837, into active service. This addition represents a strategic step in enhancing the airline’s operational flexibility and capacity.
Jackson Square Aviation (JSA), a leading US-based aircraft lessor, has announced the completion of a sale and leaseback agreement with Cebu Pacific Air, the Philippines’ largest low-cost carrier. The deal includes one A330neo and seven A321 aircraft, finalized in December 2024. Additionally, a second A330neo is scheduled for delivery in the first half of 2025.
Cebu Pacific (Philippines) has successfully closed its first-ever sustainability-linked Japanese Operating Lease with Call Option (JOLCO) for a new Airbus A321neo. This milestone financing reflects the airline’s commitment to integrating sustainable practices into its growth strategy.
Korean Air appears to be evaluating the possibility of operating its Airbus A380 fleet beyond the previously announced retirement year of 2026. Recent developments include sending several of its A380 superjumbos to Lufthansa Technik Philippines for D-checks, a major maintenance procedure required for long-term operational readiness.
EPCOR (Netherlands) and Philippine Airlines (Philippines) have announced a strategic partnership for the maintenance of Auxiliary Power Units (APUs) for Philippine Airlines’ A320 fleet. This agreement specifically focuses on the APU131-9A, a critical component ensuring reliable onboard power and system functionality.
