MANILA, Philippines?Budget carrier Cebu Pacific said it was increasing its orders of Airbus A320 aircraft to support regional expansion plans.

The airline has added five more to its current order of 10 aircraft and is considering buying another five down the line.

At 20 aircraft, the total investment required would reach $1.3 billion. Delivery of the 180-seat aircraft will be from October 2010 to November 2013.

Airline president and CEO Lance Gokongwei said the additional orders are needed because of the airline?s expanding domestic and international operations.

?The global economic downturn notwithstanding, we are experiencing a surge in the number of passengers flying Cebu Pacific mainly because of our low fares. We expect this growth to continue, hence our decision to further expand our fleet,? he said.

Cebu Pacific carried close to seven million passengers last year and expects to carry nine million this year. From 2010 onwards, the numbers should continue to grow as more aircraft are deployed to serve more destinations.

The new A320s will be powered by CFM International?s CFM56-5B engines (worth US$140 million) which are very efficient and have better fuel consumption. The engine also meets the latest environmental protection standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization for its low carbon dioxide emission.

The airline earlier signed a $100-million OnPoint solution agreement with GE Aviation?s services business.