Philippine Airlines plans order for up to 20 Boeing 787-10 jets

Philippine Airlines said it plans to acquire up to 20 Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner jets, in what it described as its first order from the US manufacturer in nearly 20 years.

The airline said it had signed a memorandum of understanding with Boeing for 15 of the aircraft, with an opportunity for five more. It did not disclose the cost of the planned acquisition.

The first wide-body aircraft is expected to be delivered in 2031. Lucio Tan, president and chief operating officer of the flag carrier's parent company PAL Holdings, said in the airline's statement that the Boeing 787-10 would strengthen its medium- and long-haul fleet.

The memorandum of understanding was announced at an international airshow in Britain. Philippine Airlines said it marked its first Boeing order since 2007.

According to the airline's website, its international fleet consists mainly of Airbus jets, although it also uses Boeing 777-300ER aircraft for long-haul destinations. The airline's statement said several key Boeing suppliers, including Moog, Rockwell Collins and JAMCO, have production facilities in the Philippines.