Rolls-Royce Secured Contract for Philippine Airlines Jets
The manufacturer will provide 18 engines to power nine new Airbus A350-1000 aircraft.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Air Travel
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Rolls-Royce has finalized an order to supply 18 Trent XWB-97 engines for nine Airbus A350-1000 aircraft operated by Philippine Airlines. The agreement also includes long-term maintenance support through the company's TotalCare package.
Why it matters
This order bolsters the engine manufacturer's presence in the long-haul market while reinforcing the trend toward more efficient engine technology in international aviation. The engines are currently capable of operating on a 50% sustainable aviation fuel blend.
The Trent XWB-97 engines are currently rated for use with a 50% sustainable aviation fuel blend. Rolls-Royce has set a future performance target for these engines to eventually operate on 100% sustainable aviation fuel.
The players
Rolls-Royce
This British multinational is a major aerospace and defense company known for designing and manufacturing aircraft engines.
Philippine Airlines
This carrier is the national flag carrier of the Philippines and serves as the country's primary international aviation operator.
Airbus
This European aerospace corporation manufactures large commercial aircraft and components, including wings produced at its Broughton site.
The details
The deal follows a memorandum of understanding signed earlier this year at the Farnborough International Airshow. These engines will be supported by Rolls-Royce throughout their service life via the TotalCare maintenance program.
Timeline
Philippine Airlines placed a previous order for nine aircraft in 2023.
The memorandum of understanding was signed in July 2026.
The current order was finalized by September 24, 2026.
Roadmap
The continued adoption of the Trent XWB-97 engine reflects a strategic focus on standardizing long-haul aircraft performance across major international fleets. This deployment highlights how engine manufacturers are prioritizing compatibility with sustainable fuel blends to meet global environmental targets.
This engine order indicates a long-term modernization of the Philippine Airlines fleet, which may impact future international route availability and cabin comfort for passengers. Travelers should expect more modern aircraft service as these units are integrated into the airline operations.
The takeaway
The selection of the Trent XWB-97 for this expanded fleet underscores the airline industry's ongoing transition toward more specialized propulsion systems. Passengers can anticipate a gradual shift toward more fuel-efficient long-haul flight options as operators modernize their aircraft inventories.
Further reading
For more background on international fleet expansions and aviation trends, visit the Air Travel section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Derby Telegraph.
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