MANILA — The Philippines’ leading airline, Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB), has received the first of 32 A321NEO (New Engine Option) aircraft ordered directly from Airbus. The new aircraft will support the carrier’s fleet renewal and expansion plans over the next five years.
Cebu Pacific is expecting delivery of at least five more A321NEO aircraft this year to support its expansion. CEB is also set to receive five (5) Airbus A320NEO (New Engine Option) aircraft leased from international aircraft leasing company Avolon, as well as an additional ATR 72-600 aircraft within 2019.
The latest delivery brings the total number of aircraft in the Cebu Pacific fleet to 72. On top of the A321NEO, the Cebu Pacific fleet is comprised of 36 Airbus A320, seven (7) Airbus A321CEO, eight (8) Airbus A330, eight (8) ATR 72-500, and 12 ATR 72-600 aircraft. The ATR aircraft are used by its subsidiary Cebgo for domestic destinations where jet operations are not possible.
CEB boasts of one of the youngest fleets in the world, with an average fleet age of five years.
With a capacity of 236 seats, the A321NEOs has 31 percent more capacity through the Airbus Cabin Flex (ACF) fuselage modification that allows for more seats without compromising on cabin comfort.