25 April 2025
Flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL), has appointed British national Richard Nuttall, former Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Sri Lankan Airlines, as its new President, effective May 29, 2025.
Nuttall will be the first foreign President for the national carrier as it aims to accelerate the airline’s international expansion and drive for “sustainable growth.”
“Appointing Richard Nuttall to Philippine Airlines is an important part of our medium-term and long-term strategy of building a robust management team and growing our business internationally,” said PAL Holdings President and Chief Operating Officer Lucio C. Tan III.
“I am confident that he will create and develop sustainable growth for PAL,” PAL Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Lucio C. Tan said.
PAL said the company’s current president and chief operating officer (COO), Stanley K. Ng, will assume a new role as vice-president of PAL Holdings, Inc. and a member of the company’s board of directors.
PAL said Mr. Ng’s appointment at its parent company is expected to provide the flag carrier with strategic direction and vision in bringing the airline to a new level of service and profitability.
Further, PAL said its general counsel, Carlos Luis L. Fernandez, will also take on a new role as executive vice-president and chief operating officer effective May 29.
Industry sources stated that Nuttall joining PAL is viewed as crucial in positioning PR for greater global competitiveness and strategic partnerships as the airline prepares its modernization strategy and route expansion plans coupled with operational excellence.
