By Rjay Zuriaga Castor
Cebu Pacific (CEB), the country’s leading low-cost carrier, has signed a landmark purchase agreement with Airbus and Pratt & Whitney for 152 new aircraft — the largest in the country’s aviation history.
The agreement with Airbus covers firm orders for up to 102 A321neo (new engine option) aircraft, and an additional 50 A320neo Family, aircrafts that are equipped with Pratt & Whitney GTF™ engines.
CEB said the acquisition was valued at approximately USD $24 billion or PHP 1.4 trillion and the aircraft manufacturer has a minimum commitment of 70 aircraft.
“The selection of Airbus and Pratt & Whitney 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,” said Michael Szucs, CEB’s chief executive officer.
“This milestone signals our ongoing dedication to expanding air travel accessibility and affordability, while supporting the Philippines’ broader economic growth and connectivity goals.”
Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, executive vice president, sales of commercial aircraft business at Airbus, said the A321neo will enable Cebu Pacific to expand its route offerings while maintaining industry-leading fuel efficiency and sustainability standards.
“We’re confident that these additional A321neo will contribute strongly to the all-Airbus operator’s next phase of expansion as one of Asia-Pacific’s leading low-cost carriers,” he added.
Airbus is expected to deliver the first batch of orders by 2029.
Department of Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista said the purchase marks a huge leap in CEB’s fleet plan, allowing the airline company to expand its group network to high levels.
“This USD $24 billion 152 aircraft order reflects the very projections of the future of the Philippines aviation […] Just as the country gets its recovery momentum, CEB shoots the gun and announces this biggest aircraft purchase, sending shockwaves across the industry,” he stressed.
Bautista also hopes that CEB will continue its growth trajectory using a comprehensive strategy of fleet and route expansion.
This year, CEB has so far added 11 new aircrafts and expects a delivery of seven more, bringing a total of 95 aircrafts this year.
Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said the exponential expansion of the country’s connectivity portfolio reflects confidence in the country’s growing aviation and travel sector.
She added that the influx of passengers and tourists will pave the way for an increase in air seats and flights, which will increase the opportunities for livelihood and employment.
“The DOT recognizes the valuable role aviation plays in the expansion of tourism […] Air travel is the main gate through which millions of international and domestic visitors discover the beauty and diversity of our country and experience the warmth and culture of our people,” she continued.
