The ability of Pd^II complexes derived from 2,6-pyridinedicarboxylic acids to catalyze homogeneous regioselective aerobic oxidation of 5- and 6-substituted 8-methylquinolines in AcOH–Ac₂O solution to produce corresponding 8-quinolylmethyl acetates in high yield was demonstrated; corresponding 8-quinoline carboxylic acids are minor reaction products.