Cebu Pacific is set to receive 12 brand new aircraft in 2019 to support the carrier’s network expansion plans this year with deliveries including six Airbus A321neo, five A320neo and an ATR 72-600.
The A321neo boasts of 236 seats, 56 seats or 31 per cent more capacity versus the A320. This will enable CEB to offer more seats and maximise airport slots. The aircraft is capable of operating routes in excess of 5,000 kilometers or fly up to seven hours, allowing the carrier to explore new destinations like India, Russia, northern Japan and other cities in Australia.
“2019 is the year we accelerate growth. On average, we will be receiving one brand-new aircraft per month which we can use to increase capacity in key markets or even launch new routes. For 2019, we expect capacity to grow from low to mid-teens,” said Cebu Pacific president and chief executive officer, Lance Gokongwei.
The Cebu Pacific fleet is currently comprised of an Airbus A321neo, 36 Airbus A320, seven Airbus A321ceo, eight Airbus A330, eight ATR 72-500, and 12 ATR 72-600 aircraft.
The Filipino carrier is aiming to fly 200 million passengers by 2020, as it expands its route network and upgrades its fleet to bigger and more fuel-efficient aircraft. The carrier hit the milestone of 150 million passengers flown since inception in late 2017.
CEB and subsidiary Cebgo fly to 36 domestic and 26 international destinations, with over 107 routes spanning Asia, Australia, the Middle East, and USA.
