Manila, Philippines – Philippine Airlines (PAL), the countries Flag Carrier, is strengthening its commitment to bridging the gender gap in aviation through its Fly With Her program, a scholarship initiative designed to support aspiring women pilots. The airline has pledged PHP 10 million to the PAL Foundation to fund the program.
- The Fly With Her program aims to encourage more women to pursue careers as pilots with PAL, addressing the global aviation gender gap, where only around 6% of pilots are women.
- As part of the initiative, PAL will release a film inspired by the real-life story of a young girl aspiring to become a pilot.
- PAL has a history of advocating for women in aviation, with Captain Aimee Carandang-Gloria becoming Southeast Asia’s first female commercial airline pilot in 1989 and later its first female airline captain in 1993.
- According to the airlines website: PAL will support 4 female cadet pilots by distributing funds directly to the designated partner flight school to help partially cover the tuition fee.
- To date, more than 80 female pilots fly for PAL, representing only 9% of its pilot roster.
Statements:
“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.
“When little girls see women take on leadership roles, it inspires them to do the same and possibly go beyond,” added Lilybeth T. Ng, PAL Assistant Vice President for Pilot Affairs.
About Philippine Airlines (PAL)
Philippine Airlines (PAL) is the flag carrier of the Philippines, operating domestic and international flights across Asia, North America, and Europe. The airline has a longstanding commitment to diversity and inclusion in aviation.
Source: Philippine Airlines
Photo Credit: PAL/Airbus
