PAL rolls out first of 20 new Airbus jets
Quezon City (20 October) -- Philippine Airlines will unveil on Friday its newest aircraft, an Airbus A319-100, as it launches the modernization of the flag carrier's single-aisle fleet.
The new fleet features a 21st-century enhanced cabin that is the first for an Asian carrier, state-of-the-art passenger amenities, and a new coastal-themed interior design.
A319 is the first of 20 brand-new units belonging to the A320 family of single-aisle jets that will be delivered to PAL over the next six years.
The new fleet will be deployed mainly for domestic flights but it will also serve some Asian destinations. The new jets are expected to enable PAL to offer business-class service to all its 19 domestic points. Previously, only the major trunk routes to Cebu, Davao, Puerto Princesa and General Santos benefited from the service.
President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo and other top government officials and private-sector guests will be at the roll out ceremonies at the main hangar of Lufthansa Technik Philippines in Pasay City, which is expected to be attended by over 700 guests from the aviation, business, travel-trade and diplomatic communities. (PIA) [top]
