Cebu Pacific Air confirmed Thursday it is evaluating proposals from Airbus and Boeing for a major fleet renewal, but stated no final order has been made yet amid reports it is nearing a massive deal with Airbus for up to 150 jets.
The Philippine budget airline said in a statement sent to AUP that “discussions and negotiations are ongoing with regard to a fleet order” but “the potential transaction is still in the closing stages and no final order has been made.”
Bloomberg reported that Cebu Pacific is closing in on an order for around 100 firm Airbus A320neo jets and 50 options, which would more than double its current fleet of 85 Airbus planes and turboprops.
However, Cebu Pacific is also being courted by Boeing, which is pitching its 737 MAX to the airline as it seeks to expand the MAX’s footprint in Southeast Asia, according to sources familiar with the matter.
According to Bloomberg, CEO Mike Szucs had said earlier this year that Boeing “had a reasonable chance” amid Airbus’ tight slots.
The airline plans to announce its decision on the fleet renewal in the second half of 2024 after reviewing requests for proposals sent to both aircraft manufacturers.
Presently, Cebu Pacific operates a fleet of eight (8) Airbus A330s, 39 Airbus A320s, 21 Airbus A321s, and 15 ATR turboprop aircraft.
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