MANILA, April 23, 2025 (BSS/AFP) - National flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) said Wednesday that British airline industry veteran Richard Nuttall would become its new president from May 29.

Nuttall, most recently chief executive at SriLankan Airlines, led the South Asian carrier's successful turnaround and return to profitability, a PAL statement said.

His appointment "is an important part of our medium-term and long-term strategy of building a robust management team and growing our business internationally", said Lucio Tan III, president and chief operating officer of PAL Holdings Inc.

"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 said.

The airline last month reported a yearly net profit of $151.1 million for 2024, its fourth consecutive year in the black.

The Briton replaces Stanley Ng, who has served as president and chief operating officer since January 2022.

Ng will become vice president of PAL Holdings and join the airline's board of directors, the statement said.

PAL also said it will receive the first of nine Airbus A350-1000s this year, serving as its flagship long-haul aircraft.

It is additionally rolling out newly refurbished A321ceos with upgraded cabins and will take delivery of 13 brand-new A321neos from 2026.