In celebration of National Women’s Month and International Women’s Day, Philippine Airlines (PAL) organized a special send-off for nine flights led by all-women flight and cabin crews on March 4th.
The send-off ceremonies were held at PAL Gate 2, R1 Hangar, Andrews Avenue, Pasay City. Five flights were bound for international destinations, including Los Angeles, San Francisco, Sydney, Jakarta, and Hanoi, helmed by female captains and crew.
Additionally, four domestic flights to Cebu City, Tagbilaran, Davao City, and Iloilo City were operated by all-women teams.
Capt. Lilybeth Tan-Ng, PAL AVP of Pilot Affairs, said:
[Flying] is the same as driving a car. Before, there were no female [drivers]. Maybe male passengers or in general passengers were afraid of female drivers. It is a matter of perception.
Capt. Ng highlighted the rarity of female pilots in the country decades ago, recalling,
I remember when we were in PAL Aviation School before, it was kinda new. There were 5 of us lady pilots, pilot trainees.
The event was graced by Capt. Aimee Carandang-Gloria, the first Filipina commercial airline pilot in Southeast Asia, who welcomed the growth of women in aviation roles.
Capt. Gloria said:
Twelve percent, 60 plus women pilots. I think that is a testament that belief women can really achieve anything they set their minds to.
Over its 83-year history, PAL has evolved into a progressive, inclusive workplace that provides equal opportunities. The all-female crewed flights represent the airline’s commitment to empowering women in the traditionally male-dominated field of aviation.
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