Philippine Airlines has entered into a letter of intent (LOI) to buy up to 12 Q400 turboprop aircraft from Bombardier for an undisclosed sum.

The deal has allowed the airline to become the first carrier to launch Bombardier’s new two-class, 86-seat variant of Q400 aircraft.

Featuring ten premium service seats, the new variant includes a modern and new configuration.

With the deal, Philippine Airlines aims to develop its domestic operations and increase intra-island connectivity in South East Asia and Australasia.

"The 86-seat Q400 aircraft will offer Philippine Airlines significant opportunities to differentiate itself in the region’s fiercely competitive environment."

The airline currently serves 31 destinations in Philippines and more than 40 destinations in South East Asia, East Asia, Middle East, Oceania, North America and Europe.

Bombardier Commercial Aircraft president Fred Cromer said: “Integrating the extra-capacity, two-class Q400 aircraft into its operations is the ideal solution for Philippine Airlines as it reshapes its domestic air travel strategy.

“With its perfect balance of passenger amenities and operational flexibility, the 86-seat Q400 aircraft will offer Philippine Airlines significant opportunities to differentiate itself in the region’s fiercely competitive environment.

“We look forward to working with Philippine Airlines to reach a firm purchase agreement for Q400 aircraft.”

Around 190 Bombardier aircraft, including more than 165 Dash8/Q Series turboprops, are currently in service or ordered by over 25 customers and operators in the Asia-Pacific region.

Last month, the Tanzanian Government Flight Agency took delivery of two Bombardier Q400 turboprops, which will be operated by Air Tanzania.


Image: Bombardier Q400 aircraft in Philippine Airlines livery. Photo: courtesy of Bombardier.