BIZ BUZZ: AirAsia PH’s new pilot
Looks like the local aviation is not yet done with management shake-ups after Philippine Airlines (PAL) welcomed Richard Nuttall, its very first foreign president, as the flag carrier’s new chief.
Budget carrier AirAsia Philippines also named a new president and general manager, captain Suresh Bangah. Unlike in PAL, however, the new leader is someone familiar with the aviation group headquartered in Malaysia.
Bangah most recently served as the group director of flight operations at AirAsia Aviation Group Ltd. He was also chief pilot and director of flight operations at AirAsia X Berhad.
His promotion was 22 years in the making. He started his career in the low-cost airline in 2003 as a first officer, pilot instructor and auditor.
“In this role, I am committed to leading our talented team of Allstars to elevate our operations while raising the bar on the end-to-end guest experience,” Bangah said.
“[We] remain focused on addressing key external challenges—including global supply chain delays affecting aircraft maintenance, rising fuel costs, higher airport charges and environmental factors that can impact operations,” he added.
Bangah replaced Ricky Isla, who led the company for about six years. Isla will serve as chief advisor to the general manager.
“With extensive management and industry experience—particularly in upholding the gold standard in safety and operational excellence, and a deep commitment to guest-centricity and Allstar values, Captain Suresh is well placed to build on the strong foundations laid by his predecessor, Ricky Isla,” AirAsia Aviation Group CEO Bo Lingam said.
