Delivery of The First Airbus A350 XWB for Philippine Airlines

The aircraft will now undertake its inaugural flight from Toulouse to Manila where an event to celebrate the new aircraft will take place.SMBC Aviation Capital is the principal sponsor of this celebratory event.

Speaking on the occasion of the delivery of the airline's first A350 XWB, Philippine Airlines President and Chief Operating Officer Jaime J. Bautista said,

"Today's delivery is an important step in the modernisation of our fleet. This A350-900 aircraft will not only allow us to operate our direct Manila to New York route all year round but it will also service our other long haul destinations, helping us compete in the increasingly competitive Asia-Pacific market. The aircraft also offers our customers an exceptional passenger experience with the latest cabin technology to make their journey as comfortable as possible."

This is also the seventh A350 XWB to be added to the SMBC Aviation Capital portfolio.

Peter Barrett, CEO of SMBC Aviation Capital, said:

"This delivery is an important milestone for SMBC Aviation Capital as it marks our first delivery to our new customer, Philippine Airlines. The Asia-Pacific region is one of the fastest growing markets in terms of air travel and we are delighted to have the opportunity to continue to expand our footprint here and deliver Philippine Airlines its first A350."

"We are pleased to welcome Philippine Airlines as the latest operator of the A350 XWB," said Eric Schulz, Chief Commercial Officer, Airbus. "The A350 XWB has set new standards for long haul flights, combining extra-long range capability with the lowest possible operating costs and the highest standards of comfort. We are confident that the A350 XWB will be a great success with Philippine Airlines and will enable the airline to reinforce its position as one of Asia's leading international carriers."

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For more information please contact:

Orla Benson, SMBC Aviation Capital, Mobile: 086 047 4343

Ben Griffiths/Selene Alford, Powerscourt: +44 7753 464 637 / +353 87 642 8844