PAL Pledges Php10 Million to Empower the Next Generation of Filipina Pilots

Philippine Airlines (PAL) is making significant strides toward bridging the gender gap in aviation through its groundbreaking Fly With Her program. This initiative is designed to help aspiring female pilots realize their dream of flying for the nation’s flag carrier. As part of this commitment, PAL has pledged P10 million to the PAL Foundation, the entity responsible for managing its scholarship program for women pilots. This financial commitment aims to provide aspiring female aviators with the necessary training and support to succeed in a traditionally male-dominated industry.

“As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we reaffirm our commitment to empowering women who aspire to fly for PAL and even take on leadership roles within the organization,” said Alvin M. Miranda, PAL Vice President for Marketing. This initiative underscores the airline’s dedication to fostering diversity and inclusion in aviation.

In addition to the scholarship pledge, PAL is set to release an inspiring short film based on a real-life story of a young girl who dreamed of becoming a pilot. This film aims to highlight the challenges and triumphs of women in aviation, reinforcing the idea that gender should never be a barrier to achieving one’s ambitions.

“When young girls see women breaking barriers and assuming leadership positions, it motivates them to pursue their dreams with confidence,” said Lilybeth T. Ng, PAL Assistant Vice President for Pilot Affairs. By spotlighting the achievements of female pilots, PAL hopes to encourage more women to consider a career in aviation.

Despite the progress made, the gender disparity in the aviation industry remains substantial. Globally, women make up only about 6% of the total pilot workforce. This stark underrepresentation highlights the importance of initiatives like Fly With Her, which not only provide financial assistance but also work to change societal perceptions about women in aviation.
A Legacy of Supporting Women in Aviation

PAL has a long-standing history of championing women in the airline industry. A testament to this commitment is Captain Aimee Carandang-Gloria, who made history in 1989 by becoming Southeast Asia’s first female commercial airline pilot. In 1993, she shattered another glass ceiling by becoming the region’s first female airline captain. Her trailblazing achievements paved the way for future generations of women to take to the skies, proving that gender is no limitation to success in aviation.

Continuing this legacy, PAL remains at the forefront of advocating for gender inclusivity and equal opportunities in the aviation sector. The airline actively fosters an environment where women can thrive, whether as pilots, engineers, or executives. With its signature service of #CareThatComesFromTheHeart, PAL is dedicated to building a more inclusive and equitable industry.

Through the Fly With Her program, PAL reaffirms its role as a catalyst for change, inspiring young women to pursue careers in aviation. By offering financial aid, mentorship, and visibility to female pilots, PAL is not just investing in individuals but in the future of the aviation industry as a whole.

To learn more about the Fly With Her program and PAL’s ongoing advocacy for women in aviation, visit Philippine Airlines - Fly With Her.