Oh, one last thing I'm not being dismissive or in denial is that I just interpret the press release differently, I have no doubt that the 10-abreast configuration is being actively considered to achieve the 380-seat capacity. However, I prefer to wait and see it progress further how it will be implemented. I know Airbus has been actively seeking customers for the 3-4-3 layout for the A350 as a counter to the Boeing 777X. It also seem mind boggling that PAL is trying again with the Hybrid-LCC model during 2013 era. But considering PAL has a new COO who spent most of his time as a pilot and not in any customer-oriented service, means he will be bound to make risky decisions and will also need to learn those lessons the hard way, while trying to meet the demands of PAL shareholders at the sametime.
I think PAL has a road-map. But lacked vision at this time.
Oh, one last thing I'm not being dismissive or in denial is that I just interpret the press release differently, I have no doubt that the 10-abreast configuration is being actively considered to achieve the 380-seat capacity. However, I prefer to wait and see it progress further how it will be implemented. I know Airbus has been actively seeking customers for the 3-4-3 layout for the A350 as a counter to the Boeing 777X. It also seem mind boggling that PAL is trying again with the Hybrid-LCC model during 2013 era. But considering PAL has a new COO who spent most of his time as a pilot and not in any customer-oriented service, means he will be bound to make risky decisions and will also need to learn those lessons the hard way, while trying to meet the demands of PAL shareholders at the sametime.
I think PAL has a road-map. But lacked vision at this time.
The 380 seating capacity decision is made because for some obvious reason
- profitability and having strategic prices because a 10 abreast economy class should be cheaper compared to other offers. As we know the culture in the Philippines, people always want cheap prices even in long haul flights. They can endure the 10 abreast economy class and still appreciate what they paid for because it is PAL after all and a direct flight which eliminates stop over. Some people will pay for the premium economy and business class which will be improved due to the extra space Airbus given to their A350s as the new production standard. Due to that improvement for higher paying passengers they will continue flying PAL even attractive offers from different airlines appear (like Delta, Starlux etc).
- efficiency in operations, more people per flight = slots in NAIA are used properly (just like what 5J is doing now cramping more pax in their precious slots since the airport has limited capacity in terms of aircraft too. Stan mentioned that they wish to utilize more widebody aircraft to bring more pax even if they have limited slots.
- the market where PAL will deploy those A35K is always full which is their US routes. The 77Ws are sometimes sent to HKG and other demanding medium-haul routes when needed. I expect A35K is always 80% or more seats occupied. If they will put fewer seats, they need another flight for the remaining pax which is inefficient considering they have fewer planes than before.
With all these issues PW is facing, Indian LCCs like IndiGo are now switching to CFM LEAP for their upcoming NEOs. You think 5J and PR ought to do the same? Looks like PW now has huge issues. There are more PW-powered NEOs that are grounded versus those using CFM LEAPs. Or is it because majority of NEOs are powered by PW?