Cebu Pacific, one of the leading low-cost carriers in the Asia-Pacific region, has strengthened its partnership with Airbus by finalizing an order for 70 A321neo aircraft. This firm order follows a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in July.

Key Signing in Manila

The official signing of the purchase agreement took place in Manila, with Mike Szucs, CEO of Cebu Pacific, and Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Executive Vice President of Sales at Airbus’ Commercial Aircraft division, representing their respective companies. This strategic move aims to enhance Cebu Pacific’s operational capabilities, offering passengers more efficient and environmentally friendly air travel options.

Focus on Efficiency and Sustainability

Mike Szucs emphasized the significance of this acquisition for Cebu Pacific’s operational strategy. He highlighted the A321neo’s role in driving operational efficiency and sustainability, while also supporting the airline’s commitment to delivering high-quality service. According to Szucs, “The selection of Airbus A321neo 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.”

He also noted that this decision aligns with the airline’s broader mission of making air travel more accessible and affordable, in turn promoting economic growth and enhanced connectivity within the Philippines.

Airbus and Cebu Pacific’s Strong Partnership

Benoît de Saint-Exupéry praised the long-standing relationship between Cebu Pacific and Airbus, particularly the contribution of the A320 Family to the airline’s domestic and short-haul international network over the past two decades. He remarked, “The A320 Family has supported Cebu Pacific’s domestic and short-haul international network growth over the last two decades. We’re grateful to the airline for its continued endorsement of our best-selling single-aisle product line.”

He expressed confidence that the newly ordered A321neo aircraft would play a crucial role in Cebu Pacific’s future growth, calling attention to the plane’s excellent economics and fuel efficiency. These qualities are expected to enhance the airline’s expansion efforts as it continues to solidify its position in the competitive low-cost carrier market across Asia-Pacific.

Cebu Pacific’s Expanding Fleet

Currently, Cebu Pacific operates a fleet of 61 Airbus A320 Family aircraft, which serves its expansive regional network. In addition, the airline uses nine A330 widebody aircraft for high-density routes within the region, as well as for services to destinations in the Middle East.

With the new order, Cebu Pacific’s backlog of Airbus aircraft has grown substantially, now standing at 94 A320neo Family aircraft and seven A330neo planes. This expanded fleet is poised to support the airline’s growth strategy, allowing Cebu Pacific to maintain its competitive edge and cater to rising demand for affordable air travel.

Supporting Philippine Growth and Connectivity

The acquisition of the A321neo aircraft is more than just a fleet expansion for Cebu Pacific; it is part of a larger vision to support the Philippines’ economic growth and connectivity goals. By offering more efficient and sustainable air travel, Cebu Pacific is positioning itself as a key player in boosting the country’s aviation infrastructure and enabling greater access to both domestic and international destinations.