British engineering giant Rolls-Royce is on the verge of finalizing a landmark multi-million-pound agreement with Philippine Airlines to equip and service the carrier’s expanding intercontinental fleet.
The high-stakes contract will see Rolls-Royce supply 18 of its high-thrust Trent XWB-97 engines to power nine new Airbus A350-1000 aircraft. Alongside the hardware delivery, the comprehensive deal incorporates a long-term total care maintenance program that guarantees lifecycle support for the powerplants throughout their operational tenure as the Manila-based airline modernizes its long-range network.
First unveiled as a preliminary memorandum of understanding during the Farnborough International Airshow in July, negotiations have now advanced to the final stages of a binding contract.
This major deal delivers several key commercial and operational benefits:
Sustained Manufacturing Capability: The order provides a significant boost to the UK aerospace supply chain, directly securing jobs and production schedules at Rolls-Royce’s main assembly and manufacturing plant in Derby.
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Progressive Decarbonization: Engineered with sustainability in mind, the Trent XWB-97 is currently certified to run on up to a 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) blend. Rolls-Royce continues to advance testing to make the engine 100% SAF-compatible in alignment with global net-zero aviation targets.
Enhanced Fleet Efficiency: Tailored specifically for the largest variant of the A350 family, the engines provide Philippine Airlines with optimal fuel burn, payload range, and reliability on its longest transpacific and international routes.
Once sealed, the partnership will solidify the Trent XWB family’s dominant footprint in the global widebody market while powering Philippine Airlines’ next phase of international growth.