PAL preparing $315-M aircraft refurbishment

Flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) is planning to refurbish its current fleet of long-range jets, a project that could cost as much as $315 million based on initial estimates.

- By ELIJAH FELICE ROSALES

After unveiling the refurbishment plan for its Airbus A321ceos, PAL is pushing ahead with the renovation of widebody planes A330-300s and Boeing 777-300ERs, which are assigned to fly to long-haul routes.

PAL president Richard Nuttall said the airline may have to invest at least $15 million to refurbish each of its A330s and 777s, totaling 11 and 10 in its fleet right now, respectively.

As such, PAL is estimated to spend up to $315 million to improve its existing fleet of long-range aircraft. However, Nuttall said this is still an early forecast given that it would take around three years before the airline pursues the refurbishment plan.