PAL reopens pilot school after five-year hiatus
The Philippine Airlines is set to reopen its aviation school after a five-year hiatus.
In a statement, the country's flag carrier said that in reopening the PAL Aviation School, it partnered with the Australia-based Airways Aviation Group "to deliver best-in-class pilot training as part of its long-term commitment to operational excellence, safety and workforce development."
Cadets will undergo foundation training, assessment, and selection processes in the Philippines.
They will continue their further aviation theory and practical training at Airways Aviation’s Australian campuses, where they will receive comprehensive instruction supported by expert faculty, industry-leading technology, and hands-on practical experience.
PAL said the program lasts 18 months and will cost P4.5 million, including meals and lodging.
The selection process for the aviation school has begun, with the first batch of 20 aspiring pilots expected to start training in July.
PAL President and Chief Operating Officer Stanley Ng said Airways Aviation met the flag carrier's "stringent requirements," demonstrating "robust emphasis on safety culture and competency-based training methodologies."
“We value the importance of in-house training in shaping pilots with a global outlook, armed with the exceptional skills and innovative spirit required to meet the challenges of the future," Ng added.
According to PAL Executive Vice President Carlos Luis Fernandez, the revamped aviation school aims to produce professionals who are not just masters of their craft but also "globally-minded citizens" committed to aviation's sustainable development.
Romy Hawatt, founder and chairman of Airways Aviation Group, emphasized that the collaboration isn't only a recognition of their global training capabilities but also a "testament to the shared values and vision that bind our two organizations.
"Together, we are investing in the future of aviation," Hawatt said. “This is more than a training programme. It’s a strategic alliance built on trust, ambition, and a shared commitment to aviation excellence and sustainability.”
According to PAL, its aviation school, founded in the '60s, has trained over 1,200 pilots. It shut down in June 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Airways Aviation has facilities in Europe, Australia, the Middle East, India, and Africa.
