Philippine Airlines Relaunches PAL Aviation School, Partners with Airways Aviation

Manila, Philippines / Brisbane, Australia — Philippine Airlines (PAL) is set to reopen the PAL Aviation School as a prominent training center for new pilots under a strategic partnership with the globally recognized flight training organization, Airways Aviation Group, to deliver best-in-class pilot training as part of its long-term commitment to operational excellence, safety and workforce development.

Following an extensive evaluation process, Airways Aviation’s Australia-based training academy was selected for its strong track record in delivering high-quality, internationally aligned pilot training programs. The partnership underscores Philippine Airlines’ drive to ensure that its cadets receive consistent, world-class instruction that meets the highest global aviation standards.

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.

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 OIC Executive Vice President – General Counsel Atty. Carlos Luis Fernandez. “This meaningful collaboration with Airways Aviationss draws from the deep well of expertise and shared commitment to excellence that both our organizations are known for.

This partnership also represents a significant step forward in the strengthening of education and training bonds between the Philippines and Australia, reinforcing both countries’ roles in shaping a safer, more skilled and more resilient global aviation workforce.

We are honoured to be selected as the official training provider for the next generation of Philippine Airlines pilots,” said Romy Hawatt, Founder and Chairman of Airways Aviation Group. “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. Together, we are investing in the future of aviation.

Philippine Airlines has reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing home-grown talent by combining local investment with global best practice, ensuring its pilots are equipped to operate at the highest level of safety and professionalism.

Our goal is to create a seamless, globally connected training experience that benefits cadets and the broader industry,” added Janet Dalby, CEO Australasia and Pacific, Airways Aviation Group. “This collaboration allows us to support Philippine Airlines with the latest in aviation education technology, while also contributing to national workforce development objectives in the Philippines.

This is more than a training programme,” Mr. Hawatt continued. “It’s a strategic alliance built on trust, ambition and a shared commitment to aviation excellence and sustainability.

The first group of cadets will commence Foundation training and undergo assessment and selection processes in the Philippines followed training further aviation theory and practical training at Airways Aviation’s Australian campuses, where they will receive comprehensive instruction supported by expert faculty, industry-leading technology, and hands-on practical experience.

Source: PAL & Airways Aviation

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Textron’s Top Hawk Programme Enters 10th Year with First UK Flight School Participant

USA/UK – Textron Aviation has marked the tenth anniversary of its Top Hawk programme, an initiative that supports student pilot development by providing flight schools with factory-new Cessna Skyhawks. The 2025 edition of the programme includes four participants:

  • United Flight Systems
  • Lunken Flight Training Center
  • Flex Air
  • VNE Aviation — the latter becoming the programme’s first recipient in the United Kingdom.

The program highlights:

  • The Top Hawk programme celebrates 10 years of supporting flight training organisations with Cessna Skyhawk aircraft
  • Each participant receives a factory-new, custom-branded Cessna Skyhawk for the duration of the programme
  • Since 2015, Textron Aviation has placed nearly 50 Skyhawks with training organisations globally
  • The programme promotes pilot training through student instruction and participation in aviation events

Celebrating 70 Years of the Cessna Skyhawk

  • The Skyhawk is the most popular single-engine training aircraft, with over 45,000 units delivered since 1955
  • The aircraft features Garmin G1000 NXi avionics, USB charging ports, modern interiors, and a Lycoming IO-360-L2A engine with 180 horsepower
  • Known for its reliability and widespread use in flight schools, the Skyhawk remains central to pilot development worldwide

Statements:

  • “With a demand for more than 200,000 new pilots globally in the next decade, it’s vital to support young people pursuing aviation opportunities,” said Lannie O’Bannion, senior vice president, Sales & Marketing. “The Skyhawk provides students with a technologically advanced flight training platform, ensuring that students at Top Hawk organizations are equipped with high quality equipment as the cornerstone of their careers.”

Source: Textron Aviation
Photo Credit: Textron Aviation

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Acron Aviation Academy Welcomes First Class Under New Brand

Sanford, Florida, USA – Acron Aviation Academy officially welcomed its first class of 28 student pilots to its Sanford-based training center under the new brand. The event was attended by David Coward, VP & GM Training Services.

During the welcome session, an A319 aircraft featuring Acron’s Avionics products taxied past, symbolizing the company’s integrated presence in aviation training and technology.

On March 31, 2025, the L3Harris Airline Academy embarked on a new chapter as part of Acron Aviation.

Source: David Coward (Acron Aviation)
Photo Credit: David Coward (Acron Aviation)

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Australia’s RMIT University Awards 2025 Leidos Aviation Scholarships to Six Final-Year Pilot Students

Australia – RMIT University has announced that six final-year student pilots from its Aviation Academy have been awarded the prestigious Leidos Aviation Scholarship. The program offers over AUD 150,000 in support and provides recipients with specialised training, real-world aviation experience, and a guaranteed employment pathway in critical aviation sectors such as Search and Rescue operations.

Half of the scholarship recipients are women, reflecting RMIT’s commitment to improving gender diversity in aviation. Students were selected from across Australia, with many expressing intentions to bring skills back to underserved or regional communities.

Source: RMIT University
Photo Credit: RMIT University

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