Domestic, International Expansion Boost Cebu Pacific Passenger Count to 13.26M in 2012

Pasay—(PHStocks)—Cebu Pacific Air Inc. (PSE: CEB) flew 13.26 million passengers from January to December 2012, an increase of 11% over 11.93 passengers in 2011.

CEB attributes this increase to strategic expansion in its domestic and international operations in 2012. It launched direct flights from Manila to Hanoi, Siem Reap and Xiamen, as well as from Cebu to Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur last year. The airline also pioneered direct flights from Iloilo to Hong Kong and Singapore.

This expansion, as well as seat sales and strengthened tourism promotions, led to notable passenger growth in the following international markets: Malaysia (21%), Taiwan (22%), China (29%), Vietnam (30%) and Brunei (32%).

A total of 10 domestic routes were also launched, paving the way for more air travel in various parts of the Philippines. This includes flights from Davao to Dipolog and from Zamboanga to Cagayan de Oro, routes which were previously served by buses plying 12-14 hour rides.

Domestic passengers from the airline’s Cebu hub grew by 20%, while its Davao hub grew by 16%.

“It is very fulfilling for us in the Cebu Pacific team to continue giving travellers new destinations, the lowest fares and direct flight options. The Philippines’ momentum when it comes to tourism buzz will be supported by Cebu Pacific’s expansion to more regions in the world,” said CEB VP for Marketing and Distribution Candice Iyog.

CEB is slated to launch twice weekly Manila-Bali (Denpasar) flights in March 16, 2013. It will also launch its long-haul operations with its first Manila to Dubai flight on October 7, 2013. Lowest year-round fares to Bali start at PhP3,499, while lowest year-round fares to Dubai are as low as PhP6,999.

CEB currently operates 10 Airbus A319, 24 Airbus A320 and eight (8) ATR 72-500 aircraft. Its fleet of 42 aircraft is one of the most modern aircraft fleets in the world. Between 2013 and 2021, Cebu Pacific will take delivery of 18 more Airbus A320 and 30 Airbus A321neo aircraft orders.