Philippine Airlines (PAL) has announced a PHP 10 million commitment to empower the next generation of Filipina pilots through its “Fly With Her” scholarship program. The pledge, made in celebration of International Women’s Day, aims to address the significant gender imbalance in the cockpit, with women accounting for only around 6% of pilots globally.
“As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we reiterate our support to women who dream of flying for and even assuming top positions in the PAL organization,” said Alvin M. Miranda, PAL Vice President for Marketing.
The substantial funding will be channeled through the PAL Foundation, which oversees the scholarship program designed to help women pursue careers as commercial pilots with the country’s flag carrier.
In addition to the financial commitment, PAL will release a special film inspired by the true story of a young girl aspiring to become a pilot. This initiative aims to increase visibility and representation of women in aviation.
“When little girls see women take on leadership roles, it inspires them to do the same and possibly go beyond,” explained Lilybeth T. Ng, PAL Assistant Vice President for Pilot Affairs, highlighting the importance of female role models in the industry.
A legacy of supporting women in aviation
The flag carrier has a pioneering history of supporting women in the cockpit. In 1989, PAL’s Captain Aimee Carandang-Gloria made history as Southeast Asia’s first woman commercial airline pilot. She continued breaking barriers in 1993 by becoming the region’s first woman airline captain.
These milestones established PAL as a progressive leader in an industry traditionally dominated by men. Through initiatives like “Fly With Her,” the airline continues to open doors for women in aviation.
Those interested in learning more about the “Fly With Her” Program and PAL’s advocacy for women in aviation can visit the official website at philippineairlines.com/ph/en/FlyWithHer.
Leave a comment