Philippine Airlines (PAL) Aviation School marked a significant milestone in its revitalization efforts by sending its first batch of pilot trainees from AO Class 2025 Alpha to Australia for advanced flight training. This send-off is a key step in the school’s relaunched operations, which began in early 2025 through a strategic partnership with Australia-based Airways Aviation.
Fourteen aspiring aviators departed following a heartfelt send-off ceremony held on September 28, 2025, at the Lucio K. Tan, Jr. (LKTJ) Center. The event was attended by PAL officials, including senior executives from the Operations Group, and the trainees’ family members.
This international training is a core component of the PAL Aviation School and Airways Aviation Australia collaboration. After completing initial training in the Philippines, the trainees will now undertake comprehensive theoretical instruction and practical flight training at Airways Aviation’s state-of-the-art campus on the Gold Coast, Australia.
Capt. Roland Narciso, PAL Senior Vice President – Operations Group, highlighted the school’s legacy and commitment to excellence. “Through the halls of the PAL Aviation School pass the best and brightest pilots who continue to uphold the principles of discipline, professionalism, and commitment to duty,” Capt. Narciso said. “The PAL Aviation School maintains the highest standards of pilot training, equipping future aviators with the knowledge and skills necessary for commercial flight. Our partnership with Airways Aviation provides a strong foundation through innovative programs and state-of-the-art facilities.”
Established in the early 1960s, the PAL Aviation School has trained over a thousand pilots, making it a foundational institution in the Philippine aviation industry.
The drive to produce new, highly-skilled pilots is critical to support the ongoing PAL fleet expansion. The airline is set to receive nine new Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, with the first delivery expected by the end of 2025 and the remainder arriving between 2026 and 2028. Additionally, thirteen new Airbus A321neo aircraft will be delivered in phases starting in 2026, further underscoring the necessity of a steady stream of highly-trained aviators.
