Local airline commits to growth with airbus purchase

Photo source: Cebu Pacific

The deal, valued at approximately 24 billion USD, is one of the largest aircraft orders in Philippine aviation history. It includes firm orders for 102 A321neo and purchase rights for 50 additional A320neo Family aircraft.

"The selection of Airbus and Pratt & Whitney underscores our focus on operational efficiency, sustainability, and innovation, ensuring that we continue to deliver the highest standards of service while significantly reducing our carbon footprint," said Michael Szucs, chief executive officer at Cebu Pacific.

"This milestone signals our ongoing dedication to expanding air travel accessibility and affordability, while supporting the Philippines' broader economic growth and connectivity goals," he added.

Airbus and Pratt & Whitney expressed their gratitude for Cebu Pacific's continued trust in their products.

"The A320 Family has supported Cebu Pacific's domestic and short-haul international network growth over the last two decades. We are grateful to the airline for its continued endorsement of our bestselling single-aisle product line," said Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, executive vice president, sales of commercial aircraft business at Airbus.

Airbus claimed that the A321neo is highly regarded for its unparalleled economics, performance, and fuel efficiency and was confident that these additional A321neo aircraft would contribute strongly to the all-Airbus operator's next phase of expansion as one of Asia-Pacific’s leading low-cost carriers.

"This latest order demonstrates the growing opportunities for aviation in the Philippines and the larger Asia Pacific region. The GTF engine will enable Cebu Pacific to continue to expand the number of routes it offers to passengers, while delivering industry-leading fuel efficiency and sustainability benefits," said Rick Deurloo, president of commercial engines at Pratt & Whitney.

CEB was advised by Blue Skies Consultants on the new transactions with Airbus and Pratt & Whitney.

The new aircraft will help Cebu Pacific further expand its domestic and international network, providing more travel options for passengers and contributing to the economic growth of the Philippines.