MUCHAS GRACIAS, WAMOS AIR
Philippine Airlines (PAL) recently engaged Wamos Air to temporarily provide two (2) dual-class Airbus A330-200s for PAL’s Manila to Melbourne and Manila to Sydney flights. This wet lease partnership with the leading European charter carrier ran from June 01, 2024 to February 01, 2025, ensuring that PAL managed its fleet effectively and maintained operational resilience during that period.”
Upon learning of their deployment to the Philippines, the Wamos Air team of pilots and cabin crew was excited about the experience. Captain Pascual, who commanded the last PR212, shared, “I immediately thought of my history classes in school and told myself, ‘I want to go!’” He added, “From the start, I was eager for the experience – I knew it would be worth it. I’m very happy and grateful to Wamos Air for giving me this opportunity.”
As a charter carrier, Wamos Air often collaborates with other airlines. Purser Adrian expressed his excitement about working with PAL, “We were really happy because we volunteered for this opportunity. We wanted to experience something like this— flying with a crew from another airline, meeting new people, and immersing ourselves in a different culture.”
Flight Attendant Aitana found it amusing that Spain and the Philippines share many similarities, “This is our first time in the Philippines, and we have enjoyed exploring places like Intramuros and the historical city. Learning about the country’s history, visiting its beautiful churches, and discovering cultural landmarks like the Instituto Cervantes—closely tied to Spanish heritage—has been fascinating.” She further added, “We also found the language very interesting. It sounds like a mix of Spanish, English, and its unique elements.”
The aircraft lease arrangement later transitioned to a damp-lease arrangement, with most of the cabin crew composed of PAL staff, while two (2) Wamos Air pilots continued commanding the aircraft.
One trait the Wamos crew admired in their Filipino colleagues was the natural care and hospitality shown to passengers. Aitana shared, “Your approach to customer service always exceeds expectations, ensuring that every passenger enjoys a memorable journey. We believe this is what sets you apart. Additionally, teamwork and strong communication are two (2) key aspects we deeply appreciate.”
Flight Purser Adrian added, “First of all, we believe the hospitality and kindness of the Filipino people are on another level. You are always warm, cheerful, and genuinely welcoming. Your joy for life is truly contagious.”
Eight (8) months quickly flew by, and it was time for the Wamos Air team to say goodbye to a country that had become their second home for six (6) months. The Melbourne route reverted to PAL aircraft on January 1, and the Sydney route concluded with EC-NUI operating its final PR212 Sydney to Manila service for PAL on February 01, 2025. When asked what she would miss most about the Philippines, First Officer (FO) Nadia shared that she would miss the people, as she felt they had become a big family.
When asked what she would take back to Spain, FO Nadia said, “I’m already taking all the wonderful moments we shared in Manila, Sydney, and Melbourne.” She added, “I’ll carry them in my heart. I’m sure we’ll see each other again!”
PAL’s Flight Purser (FP) Elva reflected on her time working with the Wamos Air team, “Working alongside Wamos crew of different cultures is an enriching experience. [It had been about] harmoniously working together, bringing PAL inflight service standards at its best.”
Read more story features in this issue of The PALiner: https://thepaliner.philippineairlines.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/TPL-2025-March-Issue.pdf
