Insider Spotlight
The enhanced service began on June 5, 2026, following the arrival of PAL’s second A350-1000 aircraft.
The flag carrier said the aircraft will operate on flights PR118 and PR119 between Manila and Toronto three times a week.
The deployment increases the presence of the airline’s most advanced aircraft in North America, where its first A350-1000 is already serving the Manila–New York JFK route.
Why it matters
The addition of Toronto as an A350-1000 destination strengthens PAL’s premium long-haul offering at a time when airlines are investing in more fuel-efficient and passenger-friendly aircraft.
The Airbus A350-1000 is the largest and newest aircraft in the carrier’s fleet and forms part of an order for nine units. Philippine Airlines also remains the first and only airline in Southeast Asia operating the aircraft type.
The aircraft is configured with 42 Business Class seats, 24 Premium Economy seats and 316 Economy Class seats.
PAL said the cabin layout is designed to provide improved comfort and onboard amenities across all travel classes, supporting demand on one of the airline’s key trans-Pacific routes.
Passengers, cargoes
The Manila–Toronto service departs Manila every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday at 7:30 p.m., arriving in Toronto at 10:45 p.m. The return flight leaves Toronto every Monday, Thursday and Saturday at 1:50 a.m. and arrives in Manila at 6:05 a.m. the following day.
Beyond passenger operations, PAL said the A350-1000 deployment will strengthen cargo capabilities between North America and the Philippines. The aircraft’s long-range efficiency and cargo capacity are expected to improve connectivity with the airline’s broader freight network.
The bottom line
The Toronto deployment signals PAL’s continued investment in modern widebody aircraft as it expands premium travel options and cargo connectivity across its North American network. —Vanessa Hidalgo| Ed: Corrie S. Narisma