Philippine Airlines is adding two more B777-300ERs to its fleet to further strengthen the airline’s long-haul operations.
The B777s, which will bring the flag carrier’s overall fleet count to 78, will be acquired by way of an agreement between leasing firm Intrepid Aviation and PAL.
The orders are in addition to the six 777-300ERs the flag carrier currently operates, including one leased by Intrepid Aviation.
PAL’s announcement came after rival Cebu Pacific ordered 16 ATR72-600 with options to acquire an additional 10 ATR72-600 from ATR, the European Turboprop aircraft manufacturer, for $673 million, based on current list prices.
“We celebrate our growing partnership with both Boeing and Intrepid Aviation,” PAL president and chief operating officer Jaime Bautista said in a statement.
“These additional 777-300ERs will help us continue to expand our long -haul markets efficiently and economically, while enabling us to provide passengers our trademark Filipino service in the modern, state-of-the-art 777,” he added.
Intrepid Aviation and aircraft manufacturer the Boeing Co. welcomed the lease of both planes by PAL.
“We are very pleased to expand our relationship with Philippine Airlines and to work with Boeing to provide PAL with such an outstanding airplane,” said Intrepid Aviation president and chief executive Franklin Pray.
“The economics and capabilities of the 777-300ER continue to make it very attractive for our customers who are looking for growth potential,” Pray added.
Boeing senior vice president for global sales and marketing John Wojick said his company had a long relationship with Philippine Airlines.
“We are delighted to partner with Intrepid Aviation to provide additional 777-300ERs for PAL’s growing fleet,” Wojick said.
He said PAL’s commitment to the 777-300ER was a testament to the airplane’s proven fuel efficiency, performance and award-winning passenger interior.
