Cebu Pacific continues ‘greening’ of fleet

PHOTO from Cebu Pacific

Budget carrier Cebu Pacific has expanded its fleet of fuel-efficient aircraft as it prepares for postpandemic recovery in travel and tourism.

The Gokongwei-led airline now has 18 eco-planes after receiving its 10th A321neo (new engine option) this month from Airbus’ Hamburg facility.

The brand-new aircraft consumes 20 percent less fuel and has nearly 50-percent reduction in noise footprint compared with older models.

“Our shift to the more fuel-efficient NEO engine aircraft not only supports our sustainability strategy, but also enables us to continue offering our trademark low fares for every Juan,” Cebu Pacific chief strategy officer Alex Reyes said.

The recent delivery is part of Cebu Pacific’s refleeting initiative in line with its sustainability goals. By 2027, it aims to have a full neo fleet, except for the ATRs or turboprop-powered aircraft

Earlier, Cebu Pacific chief commercial officer Xander Lao said that about six or seven aircraft would be delivered this year.

The low-cost airline’s fleet currently includes 22 A320ceo, six A320neo, seven A321ceo, 10 A321neo, six A330ceo, two A330neo, 14 ATR 72-600, six ATR 72-500 and two ATR Freighters.

“The arrival is timely because we see positive developments indicating recovery. We are continuously ramping up our domestic network and are preparing for more international destinations to ease restrictions for leisure travelers,” Reyes said.

Cebu Pacific CEO Lance Gokongwei said previously that demand for domestic travel was expected to rebound beginning this month while international flights could bounce back by early next year.

Last year, the low-cost airline saw its net loss widen to P24.9 billion from P22.2 billion in 2020 as the fresh surge of COVID-19 cases resulted in fewer flights and passengers. INQ