Cebu Pacific receives 11th aircraft for 2024

Budget carrier Cebu Pacific on Wednesday announced it received another A320neo, its 11th aircraft for the year, as part of the airline’s fleet and network expansion initiative.

In a news release, Cebu Pacific said the 180-seater and fuel-efficient A320neo arrived at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Manila on September 13, 2024.

“We’re thrilled to welcome another aircraft to our growing fleet. This delivery supports our commitment to making air travel more accessible and can help us serve upcoming route launches in October, including Davao to Puerto Princesa and Hong Kong,” said Xander Lao, Cebu Pacific president and chief commercial officer. 

The airline earlier announced it is embarking on a fleet expansion initiative and is set to make the biggest aircraft order in Philippine aviation history with the planned purchase of 150 aircraft from Airbus for $24 billion or P1.4 trillion. 

The company earlier this year said it expects to close the year with 95 aircraft, which will boost its full-year 2024 seat capacity by 12% to 15% compared with 2023.

The 95 aircraft targeted to be held by the end of the year will be made up of 16 ATRs, 51 Airbus NEOs, and 28 Airbus CEOs.

Meanwhile, Cebu Pacific said Airbus NEOs are the latest-generation aircraft that burn 15% less fuel per flight and produce less noise compared to the previous generation. 

The airline said the reduction in fuel consumption leads to a corresponding reduction in aircraft carbon emissions. 

Currently, Cebu Pacific’s fleet is composed of nine Airbus 330s, 40 Airbus 320s, 22 Airbus 321s, and 15 ATR turboprop aircraft. —Ted Cordero/ VAL, GMA Integrated News