PAL to add two more Boeing 777-300ERs to its fleet

Philippine Airlines will add two more B777-300ERs to its fleet to further strengthen the airline’s long-haul operations.

In a statement issued Friday, PAL said the B777s will be acquired by way of an agreement between leasing firm Intrepid Aviation and PAL. The orders are in addition to the six777-300ERs the flag carrier currently operates, including one leased by Intrepid Aviation.

The new planes will bring the flag carrier’s over-all fleet count to 78,

“We celebrate our growing partnership with both Boeing and Intrepid Aviation,” said PAL President and Chief Operating Officer Jaime J. Bautista. “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.”

Intrepid Aviation and aircraft manufacturer the Boeing Company 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 Officer 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.”

“Boeing has a long relationship with Philippine Airlines and we are delighted to partner with Intrepid Aviation to provide additional 777-300ERs for PAL’s growing fleet,” said Boeing Sr. Vice President for Global Sales & Marketing John Wojick. “Philippine Airlines’ continued commitment to the 777-300ER is a testament to the airplane’s proven fuel efficiency, performance and award-winning passenger interior.”

The 777-300ER is the most fuel and cost-efficient airplane in its class today with 99.5 percent reliability, and is considered one of the most reliable twin-aisle aircraft in the world.