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| (Image Source: AirAsia Philippines) |
Championing Gender Equality and Inclusivity, AirAsia Philippines has mounted an all-female flight in celebration of International Women’s Month. With more than 700 female Allstars or 37% of the whole AirAsia Philippines population, a woman’s contribution to the daily operation of the airline cannot be ignored. AirAsia Philippines CEO Ricky Isla shares, “Gone are the days when women were enclosed in gender-biased roles. Today, you’d see them sweating but never complaining despite being exposed to harsh elements, performing their functions as flight engineers, mechanics, ramp agents, and marshallers. Day in and out, the women of AirAsia always make sure that our beloved guests are all taken care of, leaving no tables unturned to ensure that everyone lives up to the brand promise of being the world’s best."
Flights Z2-223, Z2-224, Z2-420, and Z2-421 were commanded by Captain Jasmin Timola and First Officer Nicolette Trisha Castaneda who decided to pursue their career whilst being full-time moms. Senior Cabin Crew Mhea Salvador, and Cabin Crew Thalia Javier, Demii Marvick Fernando, and Jamessy Lee Asok, meanwhile, warmly greeted guests who were en route to their weekend vacation in Boracay and Bohol. The all-female flight aims to inspire guests to pursue their dreams and show that women can also excel in a male dominated industry. Isla added, “A first-time flyer will no longer be terrified during his flight because those in command in the sky, pilots and cabin crew alike will always reassure them that safety is paramount to us, and that they can sleep soundly because we are experts who constantly train and update ourselves with the latest procedures." To make the celebration extra special, the World’s Best Low-Cost Airline also dedicated two All Women (check-in) Lanes at the NAIA Terminal 2 in honor of all the resilient and hardworking women.
In support of the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW)’s advocacy of promoting women empowerment, a special Women’s Day PAA-Talk session – AirAsia’s internal talk series with the theme “Women Make It Work: Driving Inclusivity And Championing Equality In The workplace” was also held at the AirAsia Red Point headquarters. The airline’s big role in empowering female Allstars in the workplace was among the main discussion of the session. PCW Officer-in-Charge Atty. Khay Ann Magundayao-Borlado lauded AirAsia Philippines’ support to the celebration, stating, “AirAsia’s initiative to mount an all-female flight to Boracay and Palawan showcases the capabilities and contributions of women in aviation. May this serve as an inspiration for young women and girls that they can thrive even in traditionally male-dominated career options. With women juggling various roles at home, work, business, and their communities everyday of their lives, AirAsia’s dedication of All Women Lanes is one fitting and symbolic way to ease their multiple burdens and celebrate their contributions in our society, even for just a day. This move not only celebrates International Women’s Day but also serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of inclusivity in all sectors. #WEcanbeEquALL!!"
