Philippine Airlines (PAL) announced that it will pledge PH10 million ($175,000) to the PAL Foundation, which oversees the scholarship program for female pilots.
The Philippine flag carrier recently launched its “Fly With Her” program, which aims to help women who aspire to become pilots, and eventually fly for the airline.
According to the airline’s website, the pledged amount will be awarded to four selected female cadet pilots (approximately $44,000 each), to help kickstart their aviation training.
PAL said that the scholarship award for each selected candidate shall be distributed directly to the designated partner school to help partially cover the tuition fee for the candidates’ pilot education.
Aside from the monetary pledge, the airline said it will also release a film inspired by a real-life story of a young girl who dreamed of becoming a pilot.
“When little girls see women take on leadership roles, it inspires them to do the same and possibly go beyond,” Lilybeth T. Ng, PAL Assistant Vice President for Pilot Affairs said in a statement.
“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.
To date, more than 80 female pilots fly for PAL, representing only 9% of its pilot roster.
