Philippine Airlines Delivery Flight Becomes Relief Flight

Philippine Airlines was set to accept delivery of a brand new Boeing 777-300ER aircraft from the Boeing factory in Seattle. But as news of the devastation caused by Typhoon Haiyan spread, the airline was asked by officials in the United States if the aircraft could be filled with several tons of relief goods on its maiden delivery flight to Manila.

Image Source: PaineAirport.com

PAL President Ramon Ang didn't hesitate to grant permission to load the aircraft with supplies and relief goods understanding the important role that Philippine Airlines plays in the relief efforts. With only three cargo aircraft available in the Philippine Air Force to assist in Tacloban, the government has required the assistance of foreign governments and Philippine Airlines to assist with logistics and transportation as relief operations continue. 

Philippine Airlines has dedicated some of its entire flights to relief operations flying aid workers on behalf of government agencies from Cebu to Tacloban and flying evacuees out on the return trip. The airline has already transported a rescue team from Manila to Tacloban along with 70 doctors from the Department of Health. In addition, Red cross personnel, medical mission groups, news crews, and tons of medical equipment, cadaver bags, medicines, and relief goods have all been part of the PAL Relief Flights. The airline has also launched commercial flights between Cebu and Tacloban to accommodate passengers with confirmed bookings and any evacuees in need of assistance. 

"We join the entire country at this critical time in wanting to see a quick and concerted effort to provide aid to the Visayas region," said PAL President Ramon Ang. "Right now, many of our countrymen are in dire need of medicines and other important necessities. We are committing the resources at our disposal to help the 'bayanihan' effort to immediately bring relief to them."

Meanwhile, Philippine Airlines has also started the free airlifting of critical supplies and relief items to the hardest-hit areas in the country. The PAL Cargo Humanitarian Grant is open to government agencies, foundations, and non-government organizations to cover necessities including medical supplies, medicines, powdered milk for infants, hygiene products, toiletries, underwear, and ready-to-eat products. To maximise the use of the limited cargo space, the grant will exclude products that are already being distributed or readily available such as sardines, noodles, canned goods, and bottled water. Such items will only be flown on a space-available basis.