Thursday, 26 December 2024
Airlines

Cebu Pacific expands fleet with 3 additional Airbus aircraft

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MSN 5179, an ex-Alaska Airlines Airbus A320-214, was transferred to Cebu Pacific and delivered to the Philippines early-August 2024. (Photo: Cebu Pacific)

Budget carrier Cebu Pacific has received three new aircraft in quick succession, bringing its total deliveries for 2024 to 10. The recent additions include an Airbus A330neo, an A320neo, and an A320ceo, all arriving at Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport in late July and early August.

Cebu Pacific received its ninth Airbus A330neo on July 26, 2024. (Photo: Cebu Pacific)

The A330-941 (registration RP-C3908) touched down on July 26, marking its first revenue flight the following day. This wide-body jet, equipped with Rolls-Royce Trent 7000-72 engines, can accommodate 459 passengers in an all-economy configuration.

On August 3, Cebu Pacific welcomed an A320-271N (RP-C4264), leased from an undisclosed lessor. This narrow-body aircraft, powered by Pratt & Whitney engines, was ferried from Jakarta to Manila.

MSN 9530 in Jakarta prior to delivery to Cebu Pacific. (Photo: Cebu Pacific)

The third delivery, an A320-214 (RP-C4263), arrived on August 4 after a multi-leg journey from Lake City, Florida. This 12-year-old aircraft, previously operated by Virgin America and Alaska Airlines, is now part of Cebu Pacific’s fleet.

Xander Lao, Cebu Pacific President and Chief Commercial Officer, said, “Our continuous fleet expansion efforts underscore our commitment to provide safe, affordable, and accessible flights for every Juan. As the demand for air travel continues to rise, we are confident that we will be able to cater to more passengers looking to connect with other people or discover new destinations with Cebu Pacific.”

The airline highlighted that Airbus NEO (New Engine Option) aircraft consume 15% less fuel per flight and produce less noise compared to previous generations, resulting in reduced carbon emissions.

Cebu Pacific’s fleet expansion comes amid growing travel demand in the Philippines. In the past few weeks, the low-cost airline announced new services to Chiang Mai, Don Mueang, and Kaohsiung, among other regional flights.

In July, the carrier announced a binding Memorandum of Understanding with Airbus for up to 152 A321neo aircraft, valued at $24 billion based on list prices.

The airline currently operates one of the youngest fleets globally, with 85 aircraft including Airbus A330s, A320s, A321s, and ATR turboprops.

Written by
Dirk Andrei Salcedo

Dirk is the founder and editor-in-chief of Aviation Updates Philippines (AUP), a platform dedicated to providing the latest news and insights on the aviation industry in the Philippines. With a strong passion for aviation and a background in computer engineering, he manages all aspects of AUP, from website development to content curation.

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