Richard Nuttall moves to Philippine Airlines

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Philippine Airlines (PAL) announced the appointment of British aviation industry veteran Richard Nuttall as its new president.

Nuttall takes over from current president Stanley K Ng from 19th May of this year, marking a new phase in the Philippine flag-carrier’s drive to expand its presence in the global aviation sector through stronger corporate leadership.

Ng will take on new responsibilities within the Philippine Airlines Group as vice-president of PAL Holdings Inc, as well as a member of the airline’s Board of Directors. 

In these roles, Ng is expected to provide strategic direction and oversight to bring the flag carrier to a new level of service and profitability.

He said of his incoming successor: “I warmly welcome him to the PAL Group. I believe that under his leadership, we will sustain the momentum we’ve built over the past years.”

Among the best people in the industry

The new president will report directly to PAL chair and CEO Dr Lucio C Tan, as well as to PAL Holdings Inc president and chief operating officer Lucio C Tan III.

Dr Tan said of the new appointee:“Philippine Airlines has always been committed to working with the best people across addition to an already formidable team. I am confident that he will create and develop sustainable growth for PAL.”

The younger Tan further explained that Nuttall’s appointment is an important part of the company’s medium-term and long-term strategy of building a robust management team and growing our business internationally. 

He said: “As President, he will play an active role in bringing a global dimension to the Heart of the Filipino, and I look forward to working closely with him in the days and months ahead.”

Exceptional credentials in a dynamic industry

Nuttall joins PAL after leadership stints in airlines across Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. 

Most recently he served as CEO of SriLankan Airlines where he led a successful turnaround that saw the carrier return to operational profitability and significantly contribute to the growth of Sri Lanka’s tourism sector.

In addition, Nuttall served as an executive board member of the SkyTeam Alliance, where he helped reform the Alliance’s governance structure to accelerate decision-making and deepen airline collaboration.

He said of his impending assignment: “I am honoured to join Philippine Airlines at such a pivotal time. The airline has accomplished so much in recent years, and I look forward to building on that progress as we explore new avenues for growth.”

Nuttall will be supported by Carlos Luis Fernandez, who also assumes the dual role of executive vice-president and chief operating officer on 29th May.

Quo vadis, Philippine Airlines?

Backed by the leadership of the Tans and Nuttall, PAL is optimistic about sustaining its momentum in 2025. 

The airline posted a net income of PHP10.01 billion in 2024, following record earnings of PHP21 billion in 2023. 

This consistent performance solidifies PAL’s position as a resilient and competitive force in the airline industry.

Even as the global aviation industry faces increased volatility and uncertainty, the airline remains focused on long-term growth and fleet modernization. 

PAL also expects to receive the first of nine Airbus A350-1000s, which will serve as its flagship long-haul aircraft, this year. 

The airline is also rolling out newly refurbished A321ceos with upgraded cabins this year, and will take delivery of 13 brand-new A321neos starting 2026.

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