PAL’s pilot dream takes off: Airline revives flight school with global training in Australia

Taipan Lucio Tan’s Philippine Airlines (PAL) is bringing back its in-house pilot school with a bold refresh, teaming up with Australia’s Airways Aviation to train the next generation of aviators.

The move reflects PAL’s long-term bet on operational excellence and its push to future-proof its workforce amid the global rebound in air travel.

Training takes off in PH, Australia

Airways Aviation, chosen after a rigorous selection process, brings international-standard training and a strong safety track record. 

The partnership ensures PAL cadets get world-class education from day one, with a curriculum that blends Philippine-based foundation training and hands-on flight instruction in Australia. 

The first batch of cadets will go through screening in the Philippines before advancing to Airways’ campuses abroad.

Senior executives of Philippine Airlines and Airways Aviation headed by (seated from left) Airways Aviation Group CEO Australasia and Pacific Janet Dalby, PAL OIC Executive Vice President Atty. Carlos Luis Fernandez, PAL President and Chief Operating Officer Capt. Stanley K. Ng and Airways Aviation Founder and Chairman Romy Hawatt signed the partnership contract on Thursday (April 10) in the presence of (standing from left) PAL Senior Vice President for Operations Capt. Roland Narciso, the Australian Ambassador to the Philippines, Her Excellency HK Yu, PAL Express President Rabbi Vincent Ang and PAL Assistant Vice President for PAL Aviation Training Center Capt. Ed Alfred Medina./Photo from PAL 

Why do it in-house? 

“Airways Aviation met our stringent requirements and demonstrated their robust emphasis on safety culture and competency-based training methodologies,” said PAL president and chief operating officer Capt. Stanley K. Ng. 

“We value the importance of in-house training in shaping pilots with a global outlook, armed with the exceptional skills and innovative spirit required to meet the challenges of the future,” he added. 

PAL wants globally minded future pilots 

“Our revitalized Aviation School will help develop this vital workforce: individuals who are not only outstanding in their craft but also globally minded citizens committed to building a sustainable future for aviation,” said PAL officer-in-charge executive vice president and general counsel Atty. Carlos Luis Fernandez. 

“This meaningful collaboration with Airways Aviation draws from the deep well of expertise and shared commitment to excellence that both our organizations are known for,” he added. 

Bigger goals beyond the cockpit

More than just technical training, the partnership also deepens education ties between the Philippines and Australia—contributing to a skilled, resilient, and globally minded aviation workforce. 

For PAL, it’s not just about filling seats in cockpits—it’s about building a future-ready team that meets the highest global standards. 

What’s next? 

The Philippine Daily Inquirer reported that PAL has begun selecting the first batch of 20 cadets for its relaunched pilot training program, set to kick off by the end of July. 

The 18-month course includes time at Airways Aviation’s Australian campus, with a full package cost of around P4.5 million covering training, meals, and lodging.

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