The Philippine Airlines Aviation School has reached a significant milestone in its revival, sending off 14 promising pilot trainees to Australia for specialized advanced flight training. This development marks an important step in PAL's commitment to developing the next generation of Filipino aviators.
Historic Send-Off Ceremony
The emotional send-off ceremony took place at the Lucio K. Tan Jr. Center in Pasay City, where family members, friends, and PAL officials gathered to wish the trainees success. The 14 students, all members of the AO Class 2025 Alpha, represent the first batch to benefit from PAL Aviation School's renewed operations after its 2025 relaunch.
This revival was made possible through a strategic partnership with Australia-based Airways Aviation, creating new opportunities for Filipino aviation aspirants. The collaboration ensures that trainees receive comprehensive theoretical knowledge and practical flight experience at Airways Aviation's Gold Coast campus.
Strengthening Aviation Standards
According to Capt. Roland Narciso, PAL's senior vice president for operations, the institution maintains rigorous standards focused on developing discipline, professionalism, and commitment to duty. "We are equipping our future aviators with the skills required for commercial flights," Narciso emphasized during the ceremony.
The PAL Aviation School, which originally opened in the early 1960s, has an impressive track record of training more than a thousand pilots throughout its history. This legacy continues as the airline prepares for significant fleet expansion in the coming years.
Fleet Expansion and Partnership Renewal
Philippine Airlines is poised for substantial growth with the anticipated delivery of nine new A350-1000 aircraft. The first of these advanced planes is expected by the end of 2025, with eight additional units scheduled to arrive between 2026 and 2028. Furthermore, thirteen Airbus A321neo units will be introduced in phases starting in 2026.
In a related development, PAL has renewed its partnership with Philippine National Bank to continue the popular Mabuhay Miles Program. The ceremonial signing at the Lucio K. Tan Jr. Center was led by key executives from both organizations, including Lucio C. Tan III, Richard Nuttall, and Edwin Bautista.
Under this renewed agreement, PAL/PNB credit, debit, and prepaid cardholders can convert their reward points into Mabuhay Miles, which can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, and various travel privileges. This enhancement aims to provide greater value to customers while strengthening the relationship between the two companies.
The simultaneous developments in pilot training and customer service initiatives demonstrate PAL's comprehensive approach to advancing Philippine aviation on multiple fronts, ensuring both operational excellence and enhanced passenger experiences.
