Investing.com -- Philippine Airlines signed a memorandum of understanding for nine A350-1000 widebody aircraft during the Farnborough Air Show. The agreement was announced by Lucio C. Tan III, President and Chief Operating Officer of PAL Holdings, Inc., and Richard Nuttall, President of Philippine Airlines, alongside Airbus executives Lars Wagner and Benoît de Saint-Exupéry.

The new contract will increase the airline's total A350-1000 orders to 18 aircraft when finalized. The carrier received its first two A350-1000 aircraft this year.

The airline plans to use the A350-1000 as its flagship aircraft to expand long-haul routes, primarily connecting Manila with North American destinations. The routes will include non-stop services between Manila and cities on the East Coast of the United States and Canada.

Philippine Airlines configured its A350-1000 fleet with 382 seats across three classes. The layout includes 42 business class suites with privacy doors and fully flat beds, 24 premium economy seats in a separate cabin, and 316 economy class seats. All cabins include in-flight entertainment systems and connectivity.

"The A350-1000 will continue to define the future of our international operations for many years to come," said Lucio C. Tan III. "As the first and currently the only airline in Southeast Asia to operate the Airbus A350-1000, Philippine Airlines has experienced firsthand the aircraft's exceptional range, fuel efficiency, reliability, and passenger comfort. It has expanded our reach across North America, while delivering the world-class travel experience our customers deserve."

Philippine Airlines operates several Airbus aircraft types. The carrier flies A330-300s to the Middle East, Australia and various Asian destinations. The airline also operates A320 and A321 single-aisle aircraft on domestic and regional routes.