Low-cost carrier Cebu Pacific continues to ramp up its fleet expansion with the confirmed addition of five Airbus A320neo (new engine option) aircraft. Deliveries of the aircraft will begin in the first half of 2019 and be completed within the same year.
The five additional A320neo aircraft is on top of Cebu Pacific’s order of two more A321ceo (current engine option), 32 Airbus A321neo, and six ATR 72-600 aircraft, which are scheduled for delivery between 2018 and 2022. The additional aircraft will be used to support the carrier’s expansion plans.
“We see expansion opportunities in new markets, as well as pent-up demand in areas where we currently operate. The introduction of the first new-generation, fuel-efficient A320neo aircraft to the Philippine market will help us to further strengthen our position in the Philippines and allow us to further pursue expansion of our international route network. From this year until 2022, we are adding an average of nine new aircraft per year to our fleet,” Cebu Pacific vice president for commercial planning Alexander Lao said in a statement.
“With higher seat capacity and much greater fuel efficiency, the A320neo will enable us to fly further and more economically. It’s the perfect addition to our fleet, allowing us to offer even more compelling fares to more passengers,” he added.
The single-aisle A320neo aircraft for Cebu Pacific will be equipped with the Pratt & Whitney PurePower PW1100G-JM geared turbofan. The aircraft has a maximum range of 6,300 kilometers but burns up to 20% less fuel.
Cebu Pacific will acquire the five aircraft via an operating lease agreement signed with Avolon Aerospace Leasing Limited, one of the largest aircraft leasing companies in the world. This is the second lease agreement between Cebu Pacific and the Dublin-based Avolon following the placement of three Airbus A330-300 aircraft with the carrier.
Cebu Pacific has one of the youngest fleets in the world, with its total fleet of 67 aircraft having an average age of 4.8 years. Its fleet is comprised of 36 Airbus A320, five Airbus A321ceo, and eight Airbus A330, as well as a fleet of eight ATR 72-500 and 10 ATR 72-600 aircraft, operated by subsidiary Cebgo.
