Philippine Airlines (PAL) teamed up with Collins Aerospace to equip its aircraft with locally-manufactured seats, the Board of Investments (BOI) said Friday.
The BOI joined the first article inspection (FAI) of main cabin seats produced by Collins Aerospace at its Batangas facility on Nov. 13, 2024. The FAI is a rigorous quality assurance process ensuring the new seating products meet customer specifications.
“This 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,” said BOI executive director Ma. Corazon Halili-Dichosa during the FAI.
Collins Aerospace, a Tier 1 global aerospace manufacturer operating at the First Philippine Industrial Park since 2012, is a cornerstone of the country’s aerospace sector.
Its Batangas facility produces lavatories, cabin galleys and seats for major airlines, including Airbus and Boeing. With over 3,500 Filipino employees, the facility recently delivered its first shipment of Meridian main cabin seats to Airbus and is on track to triple production by the end of 2024.
“This collaboration lets our passengers experience the craftsmanship, quality, and comfort of seats made right here in the Philippines. It’s a step forward not only for PAL but for the entire country,” said PAL president and chief operating officer Stanley Ng.
Collins Aerospace Philippines general manager Mary Destaffan highlighted the partnership’s significance.
“It is the first time that our locally-manufactured seating products will be used by the Philippine flag carrier. We are excited to continue growing our presence in the Philippines and contributing to the country’s position as a leading aerospace manufacturing hub,” she said.
The Batangas facility, which operates on 100-percent renewable energy, supports Collins’ global sustainability goals, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 25,000 metric tons annually.
