Collins Aerospace, a division of RTX, recently hosted Philippine Airlines (PAL) for the First Article Inspection (FAI) of its Pinnacle® main cabin seats. The milestone event, held at Collins Aerospace’s Tanauan City facility, marked the first collaboration on seating between the global aerospace leader’s Philippines-based facility and the country’s flag carrier.
The inspection was led by PAL President Stanley Ng, alongside senior executives from the airline. The event also saw the presence of representatives from the Philippine Board of Investments, the Philippine Economic Zone Authority, and the U.S. Embassy.
“This collaboration between Collins Aerospace and Philippine Airlines represents a significant step forward for the Philippines’ aerospace industry. The expansion of Collins’ main cabin seating production at our Philippines location, in addition to installing the seats to fly on the nation’s flag carrier soon, showcases our facility’s world-class capabilities and demonstrates the potential for growth in the local aerospace sector,” according to Mary DeStaffan, Senior Director of Operations at Collins Aerospace Philippines.
The Pinnacle main cabin seats inspected during the event are set to be installed on PAL’s narrow-body aircraft, enhancing passenger comfort and safety while showcasing a modular design that maximizes living space.
The PAL President expressed pride in the partnership, emphasizing PAL’s commitment to supporting local industries while upgrading passenger experience. “Philippine Airlines is proud to partner with Collins Aerospace in this initiative. This collaboration aligns with our commitment to supporting local industry while ensuring our passengers enjoy the highest standards of comfort and safety. Being the first airline in the country to install locally made seats adds a special significance to our fleet enhancement program,” said Ng.
Collins Aerospace’s Tanauan facility, established in 2012, specializes in producing various cabin interior components, including galleys, oxygen systems, and lavatories. In 2024, the site expanded its production capabilities by manufacturing main cabin seating, reinforcing its role as a key player in the Philippines’ aerospace industry.
As the Philippines’ flagship carrier, PAL operates a diverse fleet of Boeing, Airbus, and De Havilland aircraft, offering service to 68 destinations across the globe. Meanwhile, Collins Aerospace continues to push the boundaries of aerospace technology, contributing to sustainable aviation and innovative passenger solutions.