Manila: Flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) announced Wednesday it will augment its fleet for domestic operations. PAL has just accepted the delivery of five Airbus A320, and another unit will be received before yearend. Next year, three more aircraft will arrive to boost PAL's operations.

According to Philippines News Agency, each of the additional units is configured to carry 180 passengers, enabling PAL to increase flight frequency. 'By expanding our A320 fleet, we are providing travelers with more reliable, convenient, and comfortable options,' PAL Express president Rabbi Vincent Ang said in a statement. "Right-sizing our fleet enables PAL to maintain and improve our on-time performance scores, ensuring we continue to operate with the highest standards of reliability, safety, and efficiency,' Ang added.

The additional planes are part of PAL's broader fleet enhancement initiatives, which also include the modernization of long-haul routes with Airbus A350-1000s, upgrades to existing narrow-body aircraft, and plans to acquire new A321neo jets. These investments, PAL said, are designed to improve operational reliability and elevate the in-flight experience for every passenger.

The latest fleet augmentation will increase PAL's systemwide fleet to 80 aircraft, including 16 A320s deployed across key domestic routes. Meanwhile, in time for the peak season, PAL has increased flight frequencies on key routes such as Butuan, Cagayan de Oro, Cotabato, Legazpi (Daraga), Dumaguete, and Tacloban.