Philippine budget airline Cebu Pacific has been actively relaunching routes to international destinations and acquiring new jets to spearhead its post-pandemic recovery. As travel demand surges, the airline has positioned itself to cater to more passengers and expand its network significantly.
Relaunching International Routes
This month, Cebu Pacific relaunched routes to Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Singapore. Additionally, it introduced a new direct route between Manila and Chiang Mai in Thailand. These strategic moves aim to reconnect popular destinations and facilitate easier travel for passengers.
Fleet Expansion
In 2023, Cebu Pacific has bolstered its fleet with the addition of 10 new aircraft, including three state-of-the-art Airbus Neos. Currently, the airline operates 70 Airbus aircraft and 15 ATR turboprops. Further expanding its fleet, Cebu Pacific signed a memorandum of understanding with Airbus in July to purchase up to 152 aircraft in a historic $24 billion deal, underscoring its ambitious growth plans.
Sustained Market Leadership
Operating in 35 domestic and 26 international destinations across Asia, Australia, and the Middle East, Cebu Pacific remains the largest airline in the Philippines. In 2022, it served 20.86 million passengers, surpassing its closest competitor, Philippine Airlines, which recorded 14.7 million passengers. The resurgence of international travel has also been notable, with the number of passengers more than doubling to 24.81 million, nearly 80% of pre-pandemic levels.
Future Prospects
In its quest for expansion, Cebu Pacific is considering acquiring AirSWIFT, a Philippine aviation company specializing in short-range flights to resorts. Leaders of both airlines are working toward a potential agreement in the coming months. The possible acquisition could further solidify Cebu Pacific’s dominance in the market and enhance its service offerings.
As passenger demand for air travel rises, Cebu Pacific continues to adapt and grow. With new aircraft, expanded routes, and potential strategic acquisitions, the airline is well-equipped to connect more travelers with their desired destinations, marking a significant milestone in its post-pandemic recovery journey.
