Airline to continue expansion across Asian region

Cebu Pacific (CEB) of the Philippines has placed a firm order with Airbus for seven more A320 aircraft. The latest contract increases the carrier’s A320 Family order backlog to 22 aircraft, scheduled for delivery between the last quarter of 2010 and 2014.

Powered by CFM 56 engines, the new aircraft will join an existing A320 Family fleet flying on the low cost carrier’s extensive domestic and regional route network.

“The A320 Family offers the right combination of low operating costs, fast turnaround times and high levels of passenger comfort,” said Lance Gokongwei, Cebu Pacific President and CEO. “These features have enabled us to offer a high-quality, value-based product to our passengers, which we will bring to more destinations and more markets across the region as our fleet continues to grow.”

“We are extremely pleased that the A320 Family has played a role in enabling Cebu Pacific to build a very successful and competitive airline,” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers. “With the latest order the carrier will be well positioned to continue its expansion, operating the most modern and efficient single aisle aircraft available today.”

Manila-based Cebu Pacific currently operates 21 aircraft from the A320 Family, with an average age for the fleet of just 2.8 years. The carrier currently flies to 33 domestic destinations and 14 cities across the Asian region.

The A320 Family is recognised as the benchmark in the single-aisle product category. Over 6,500 aircraft from the Family have already been sold and more than 4,200 delivered to some 300 customers and operators worldwide.

Source and picture: Airbus