Saturday, 21 December 2024
Airlines

Cebu Pacific marks milestone, flying 250 million passengers

Airline celebrates with surprise for overseas Filipino worker on flight from Singapore to Manila

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Pilots and cabin crew of 5J-814 Singapore-Manila congratulate Russel Capaniarihan for marking Cebu Pacific's 250 millionth passenger milestone. (Photo: Cebu Pacific)

Cebu Pacific has reached a significant aviation landmark, celebrating its 250 millionth passenger with a jubilant event that highlights the airline’s growth and commitment to connecting Filipinos across the globe.

The airline’s passenger milestone progression tells a story of consistent expansion: from 50 million passengers in January 2011 to 100 million in January 2015, then 150 million in December 2017, and 200 million in March 2022, the most recent milestone now culminates in 250 million passengers in December 2024.

On December 11, 2024, the airline honored Russel Capaniarihan, a Singapore-based overseas Filipino worker from Bacolod, who became the carrier’s milestone passenger during Flight 5J-814 from Singapore to Manila. Her journey home after 11 years symbolizes the airline’s mission of making travel accessible and meaningful.

Cebu Pacific President Xander Lao emphasized the significance of this achievement, stating that the milestone represents “countless stories, reunions, and memorable moments” that underscore the airline’s impact beyond mere transportation.

The Cebu Pacific team warmly welcomes Russel Capaniarihan, the airline’s 250 millionth passenger, at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 Arrivals Hall. (Photo: Cebu Pacific)

Capaniarihan’s unexpected celebration began at Singapore Changi Airport, where flight passengers were greeted with a commemorative photo wall. The excitement continued mid-flight, with cabin crew hosting games and offering prizes that added a festive atmosphere to the journey.

Upon arrival at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3, Capaniarihan was warmly welcomed by Cebu Pacific’s top executives, including Lao and Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer Candice Iyog. In recognition of her historic status, she received a substantial reward of PHP 250,000 and 25 free round-trip tickets across Cebu Pacific’s network, which spans the Philippines, Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.

The celebration extended to Capaniarihan’s hometown of Bacolod, where local representatives provided an additional heartwarming welcome, further emphasizing the personal connection at the heart of this corporate milestone.

This landmark reflects Cebu Pacific’s continued growth in the Philippine aviation sector, demonstrating the airline’s ability to connect overseas Filipino workers and provide affordable travel options for millions.

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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