PAL to Return to Europe as Ban Lifted

The European Commission has lifted the air ban for Philippine Airlines to operate flights to Europe.

Siim Kallas, Commission Vice-President responsible for transport, said, "The EU air safety list was created for the protection of European skies and citizens, but it can also serve as a wake-up call to countries and airlines in need to get their safety house back in order. We have confirmed our willingness to remove Philippines airlines from the list as they show real commitment and capacity to implement international safety standards in a sustainable manner."

All air carriers from the Philippines were banned from the EU in March 2010 following poor results from an ICAO audit in 2009 which led to a significant safety concern (SSC) being issued by ICAO.

A follow-up audit in October 2012 showed some improvements had been made, however the SSC was not removed and another added. A further audit in February 2013 found sufficient progress had been made to lift both the SSCs.

The commission conducted an on-site visit between 3 and 7 June 2013 to verify the situation, and to provide information for the Air Safety Committee (ASC) to aid the deliberations on any potential lifting of the current restrictions.

The lifting of the ban on Philippine Airlines is of extreme importance to the future of Philippine Airlines.

In a statement issued earlier today, the airline said, "Credit goes to the Philippine government for all its effort and hard work in successfully addressing this significant concern hounding our aviation industry for years.

This welcome development also signals the westward expansion of our international route network as we prepare for the much awaited return of PAL to such popular European destinations as London, Paris, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, Rome and Madrid.

When we fly back to Europe after an absence of 15 years, we can boast of a newer fleet of aircraft and top quality customer service.

More than providing Filipinos living and working in Europe with the most direct link to Manila, we hope to bring the best of the Philippines to Europe and the best of Europe to the Philippines."