Cebu Pacific (CEB) is confident it will hit its target of over 24 million passengers this year driven by its aggressive route expansion in the fourth quarter.
Last year, CEB flew over 20 million passengers. This year’s target is expected to exceed the pre-pandemic volume of 22 million passengers recorded in 2019.
“We are really still looking at 24 million plus (passengers). I saw the initial numbers this morning. So, I just like to validate it a bit more. But it feels clear. We will be reaching the 24 million passenger number target we have set (this year),” Xander Lao, CEB president and chief commercial officer, said in a press briefing in Makati.
Passenger growth is being driven by the airline’s expansion to new routes and the availability of new aircraft during the fourth quarter.
To date, CEB’s systemwide capacity has reached 123 percent with a total of 94 domestic and international routes. Lao said in August, weekly flights will reach 3,200.
CEB continues to launch new domestic and international routes, with flights from Manila to Don Mueang, Bangkok, and flights between Cebu to Don Mueang, Bangkok; Masbate; San Vicente, Palawan; and Osaka, Japan in October.
Lao also announced new direct flights from Manila to Chiang Mai, Thailand.
Starting on October 29, CEB will operate flights from Manila to Chiang Mai three times weekly – every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. Chiang Mai to Manila flights will also operate three times weekly, on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays.
“We share the anticipation of many Filipino travelers as we prepare to launch the only direct flights between Manila and Chiang Mai. This new route will provide our passengers the opportunity to explore Thailand beyond its urban attractions. Chiang Mai’s natural heritage, ancient temples, and laid-back atmosphere promise a tranquil escape for every Juan,” said Lao.
In line with the route launch, CEB passengers may book flights from Manila to Chiang Mai from August 1 to 6 for as low as P1 one-way base fare, exclusive of fees and surcharges. The travel period is from October 29, 2024, to March 30, 2025.
CEB currently offers flights to 35 domestic and 26 international destinations spread across Asia, Australia and the Middle East.
