When you think “pilot”, you probably think of a man in an airline uniform proudly taking charge of a cockpit. But did you know that approximately 6% of pilots are women? And did you know that flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) was instrumental in paving the way for women in aviation?

Charting paths for Filipinas

In 1989, PAL’s very own Captain Aimee Carandang-Gloria made history as Southeast Asia’s first female commercial airline pilot to command a flight. Just four years later, in 1993, she broke another barrier, becoming the region’s first female commercial airline captain – proving that women belong in the cockpit, too.

Capt. Aimee’s story proves that when dreams take flight, anything is possible. Today, over 80 women pilots fly for PAL, representing about 9% of their pilot roster. And with the airline’s new Fly With Her program, they’re taking it to a whole new level. PAL is on a mission to inspire Filipinas and prove that the sky is definitely not the limit—starting from their earliest years.

Philippine Airlines’ new Fly With Her short film to inspire the next generation of Filipina pilots

PAL has always believed that Filipinas can do anything they put their mind to. With their desire to encourage girls at a young age, PAL recently released a Fly With Her short film to inspire the next generation of Filipina pilots. The film captures a young girl’s journey as she finds the courage to pursue her dream of flying, encouraged by her brother. It features one of PAL’s very own Filipina pilot and a reimagined version of Eraserheads’ classic song “Alapaap,” performed with female vocals – a symbolic tribute to women reaching for the sky.

Philippine Airlines’ new Fly With Her storybook is perfect for aspiring young Filipina pilots

PAL didn’t just stop at a heartwarming short film. It was also accompanied by a Fly With Her storybook with a similar story that features a young girl who’s passionate about airplanes. Written by Irish Bautista and Mica Dela Rosa and with enchanting illustrations by Kim Alexis Santiago, Fly With Her is a heartfelt dedication to every girl who dreams of flying and the unwavering support of those around her.

The story follows Aira, a young girl whose fascination with toy airplanes ignited a lifelong passion for flying. Her brother Peter’s creativity (making paper planes and building airplane kites) also became a gentle encouragement for her to pursue her dream of becoming a female pilot.

Snag a copy of the Fly With Her storybook for FREE at the PAL Museum on the ground floor of the Lucio K. Tan Jr. Center in Andrews Avenue, Pasay City. It’s available for pick up every Friday this March, from 10 AM to 12 PM and 1 PM to 3 PM, until supplies last. Make sure you don’t miss out!

There is no limit to what Filipinas can achieve

PAL’s Fly With Her storybook and short film are both part of the airline’s Fly With Her program. As part of its commitment to diversity and inclusion, PAL, in partnership with the PAL Foundation, has pledged Php 10 million to provide financial assistance to aspiring women pilots who need the extra boost to chase their dreams and live the life they’ve always wanted.

It’s all about making those lifelong dreams a reality, because PAL’s vision is simple: more women pilots in the skies!

With a strong support system like PAL’s Fly With Her program, little girls can dream big and be reminded that the sky’s not the limit — it’s just the beginning.

For more information about PAL’s Fly With Her program, visit https://www.philippineairlines.com/ph/en/FlyWithHer.

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