Philippine Airlines (PAL) has announced the reopening of its aviation school through a strategic partnership with the globally recognized Airways Aviation Group. The collaboration aims to deliver world-class pilot training as part of the flag carrier’s commitment to operational excellence and workforce development.
The partnership was formalized during a signing ceremony on April 10 attended by key executives from both organizations. PAL President and COO Capt. Stanley K. Ng represented the airline alongside other senior officials, while Airways Aviation was represented by Founder and Chairman Romy Hawatt and CEO Australasia and Pacific Janet Dalby.
“Airways Aviation met our stringent requirements and demonstrated their robust emphasis on safety culture and competency-based training methodologies,” said Capt. Ng. “We value the importance of in-house training in shaping pilots with a global outlook, armed with exceptional skills and innovative spirit.”
The revitalized aviation school will focus on developing highly-skilled pilots who are not only technically proficient but also globally minded professionals. This initiative comes as the aviation industry continues to face pilot shortages while expanding operations post-pandemic.
PAL selected Airways Aviation’s Australia-based training academy after an extensive evaluation process, citing the organization’s strong track record in delivering high-quality, internationally aligned pilot training programs. The partnership also represents a significant step in strengthening education and training bonds between the Philippines and Australia.
“We are honoured to be selected as the official training provider for the next generation of Philippine Airlines pilots,” said Romy Hawatt. “This partnership is not only a recognition of our global training capabilities, but a testament to the shared values and vision that bind our two organizations.”
The first group of cadets will begin foundation training in the Philippines before proceeding to Airways Aviation’s Australian campuses. There, they will receive comprehensive instruction from expert faculty, access to industry-leading technology, and hands-on practical experience.
This initiative underscores PAL’s commitment to nurturing homegrown talent by combining local investment with global best practices. The airline aims to ensure its future pilots are equipped to operate at the highest levels of safety and professionalism in an increasingly complex global aviation environment.
The Australian Ambassador to the Philippines, Her Excellency HK Yu, was also present at the signing ceremony, highlighting the international significance of this educational partnership between the two countries.
For Philippine Airlines, Asia’s first commercial airline, this partnership represents another milestone in its ongoing efforts to maintain leadership in aviation excellence while supporting national workforce development goals.
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