On the same day that the US Federal Aviation Authority upgraded the aviation status of the Philippines to Category 1 from Category 2, the European Union (EU) announced Thursday the lifting of the air ban on Cebu Pacific Airlines to Europe on account of improved airline security and safety.
“The decision of the European Commission to lift the ban on Cebu Pacific shows the ability of Philippine authorities and business to work with the EU to raise standards and create economic opportunity,” EU Chargé d’affaires at the Delegation to the Philippines Julian Vassallo said in a statement.
“Having demonstrated their commitment and capacity to adhere to international standards, we heartily welcome Cebu Pacific to European skies,” he said.
In the same statement, Lance Gokongwei, Cebu Pacific president and CEO, welcomed the development which he said was “a testament to Cebu Pacific’s commitment to safety and full compliance with the international aviation safety standards.
“This would not have been possible without the full support of the Philippine government, and especially the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines.”
He added, “This enables Cebu Pacific to continue flying to where the Filipinos are. With nearly a million Filipinos working in the EU, we look forward to offering CEB’s trademark lowest fares, and the most extensive route network in the Philippines.”
Cebu Pacific is the second Philippine carrier the EU allowed to fly to Europe after the 2010 ban. The ban on flag carrier Philippine Airlines was lifted in July 2013.
Photo from www.facebook.com/cebupacificair
