CEB launches three new flights from Iloilo

CEBU, Philippines — Cebu Pacific announced its expansion in the Iloilo Hub with the launch of three new domestic routes, reaffirming its commitment to enhancing inter-island connectivity and making air travel more accessible to Filipinos.

CEB will launch daily flights between Iloilo and Tagbilaran on December 1, followed by the Iloilo- Daraga (Legazpi) route on December 2, with flights operating three times a week. Flights between Iloilo and Dumaguete will start on December 3, also offering thrice-weekly flights.

“We are excited to introduce three new domestic routes from Iloilo, which comes just in time for the holiday season when many Filipinos go the extra mile to visit loved ones in different provinces. At Cebu Pacific, we continue to explore new opportunities to bring every Juan closer together as we remain committed to making air travel more convenient and affordable across the Philippines,” said Xander Lao, CEB President and Chief Commercial Officer.

Once the direct flights to Tagbilaran, Daraga, and Dumaguete are launched, CEB will serve a total of 14 destinations from Iloilo, including two international routes: Hong Kong and Singapore.

With CEB’s upcoming new routes, travelers from Iloilo are invited to visit the iconic Chocolate Hills in Bohol, explore the historic Cagsawa Ruins with stunning views of Mayon Volcano in Legazpi, and dive into the vibrant marine life around Apo Island from Dumaguete. Passengers may use their existing Travel Funds to book flights and avail of other add-ons.

CEB also offers other payment options, including credit or debit cards and e-wallets. CEB operates in 35 domestic and 26 international destinations spread across Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.

Meanwhile, CEB recently announced the signing of a landmark purchase agreement with Airbus and Pratt & Whitney, an RTX business, for up to 152 A321neo aircraft, equipped with Pratt & Whitney GTF™ engines.

The agreement with Airbus covers firm orders for up to 102 A321neo, plus 50 A320neo Family purchase rights.

This acquisition --- which has a minimum commitment of 70 aircraft --- is the largest in Philippine aviation history, valued at approximately US$24 billion (PHP 1.4 trillion) based on list prices for the entire 152 aircraft order. This purchase agreement reflects CEB’s strong optimism for the future of air travel and steadfast commitment to meeting the evolving needs of passengers.

“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, chief executive officer at Cebu Pacific.

“This milestone signals our ongoing dedication to expanding air travel accessibility and affordability while supporting the Philippines’ broader economic growth and connectivity goals,” Szucs added.

Airbus said the purchase agreement is a testament to the airline’s confidence in its products and a positive signal for the aviation industry’s recovery.

“The A320 Family has supported Cebu Pacific’s domestic and short-haul international network growth over the last two decades. We’re grateful to the airline for its continued endorsement of our bestselling single-aisle product line. The A321neo is highly regarded for its unparalleled economics, performance, and fuel efficiency. 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,” said Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, executive vice president, of sales of commercial aircraft business at Airbus.

“This latest order demonstrates the growing opportunities for aviation in the Philippines and the larger Asia Pacific region. The GTF engine will enable Cebu Pacific to continue to expand the number of routes it offers to passengers while delivering industry-leading fuel efficiency and sustainability benefits,” said Rick Deurloo, president of commercial engines at Pratt & Whitney.

CEB was advised by Blue Skies Consultants on the new transactions with Airbus and Pratt & Whitney.  — (FREEMAN)