In a landmark move for sustainable aviation in the Philippines, Cebu Pacific successfully completed the country’s first full electric aircraft turnaround at Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) on May 20, 2025.
Flight 5J-566, bound for Manila, was prepared entirely using zero-emission electric ground support equipment (GSE). The airline confirmed that every step—from baggage and cargo loading to aircraft pushback—was carried out using electric-powered machinery.
“This milestone shows our strong commitment to decarbonizing our operations,” said Cebu Pacific chief operations officer Javier Massot. “We are proud to be the first airline in the Philippines to achieve this, especially in Cebu, where our journey began.”
The operation was made possible through a partnership with airport operator Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corporation (ACAC) and GSE provider TLD Asia. Ground handling support was provided by 1Aviation Groundhandling Services Corp.
The milestone flight, operated by Airbus A321neo RP-C4121, also utilized bridge-mounted equipment (BME) at the gate, offering pre-conditioned air and ground power from a fixed unit—reducing the need for jet fuel-powered auxiliary power units.
According to MCIA, they are now exploring the expansion of electric GSE infrastructure, including common-use charging stations for other airlines. “We focus on expanding infrastructure for green aviation fuels and zero-emission equipment,” said MCIAA General Manager Julius Neri.
The airline’s latest sustainability effort builds on its August 2024 introduction of BME technology at MCIA, positioning the airline and airport as pioneers in Philippine green aviation.
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