Philippine Airlines (PAL) will be equipping its aircraft with locally-made main cabin seats produced by Collins Aerospace, marking the first time the flag carrier will use Filipino-made seating.
In a statement on Friday, Nov. 15, the Board of Investments (BOI) said this milestone between PAL and the American aerospace products manufacturer underscored the country's growing role in the global aerospace value chain and highlighted the potential of local manufacturing.
“This milestone is a testament to the capabilities of our local manufacturing sector,” Special Assistant to the President Secretary Frederick D. Go, said.
“The government welcomes initiatives like this through enhanced streamlining of fiscal incentives under the CREATE MORE Act, paving the way for future expansion and growth in high-value industries such as aerospace,” he added.
The Collins Aerospace facility in Batangas began operations in 2012 and manufactures various aircraft components, including lavatories, cabin galleys, and seating products.
The facility, located in the First Philippine Industrial Park, is one of Collins' largest international facilities, employing over 3,500 Filipino workers.
BOI Executive Director Ma. Corazon Halili-Dichosa lauded the partnership, noting that it is a show of trust and pride in the capabilities of the Filipino workforce.
"This achievement underscores the Philippines’ growing role in the global aerospace value chain,” she added.
PAL President & COO Capt. Stanley K. Ng called the partnership a "historic moment" for the flag carrier.
“We are proud to support Philippine-made products, and with this collaboration, our passengers will soon experience the workmanship, quality, and comfort of seats manufactured right here in the Philippines. It’s a step forward not only for PAL but for the entire aviation industry in the country,” he said.