Cebu Pacific is known for being an airline that continues to redefine Philippine aviation. They do not settle for mediocrity, nor do they want to be left behind. They are always thinking ahead, moving with the trends in global aviation. Lately, the world has been seeing huge aircraft orders from foreign airlines. These orders from airlines like IndiGo, Emirates, and United, to name a few, amount to more than a hundred aircraft. We doubted we would see this in the Philippines until Cebu Pacific placed a massive order of 152 Airbus A320neo family aircraft, making it the largest aircraft order in Philippine aviation history.
On October 2, Cebu Pacific finalized this order for a minimum commitment of 70 aircraft, with up to 152 aircraft. Lately on social media, there has been some confusion. Some thought that the original 152-plane order went down by more than half to just 70. On the other hand, some think that on top of the 152 aircraft orders, Cebu Pacific ordered another 70 planes, bringing their order book up to 222 planes.
To clear up all the confusion, allow me to explain this order in detail, as I was present at the official signing.
Still at 152 Aircraft Orders
The status of this order as the largest aircraft order in Philippine aviation history still holds. Cebu Pacific signed the contract for a full 152 aircraft orders worth PhP 1.4 trillion in list prices. However, why are some saying 70 planes? The 70 planes are basically the minimum commitment order. Hence, Cebu Pacific is definitely going to get at least 70 Airbus A321neos. So no matter what happens, the airline is purchasing 70 planes.
So what about the other 82 planes? What happened to them? The total number of firm orders is 102 A321neo jets, with purchase rights for 50 more A320neo planes. This will allow Cebu Pacific to have more flexibility on the delivery of the aircraft, contingent on many other factors such as infrastructure like airports, market demand, and of course, flexibility in the event of situations beyond the airline’s control. While there is still no specific deadline for when the 50 purchase rights will be exercised, Cebu Pacific is not in a hurry to decide.
A Well Calculated Decision
Amidst the enormous number of planes ordered—which is a first in Philippine aviation history—this move is well calculated to minimize risks. Some may think that Cebu Pacific’s order is too ambitious, but trust me, it’s better to be too ambitious than to have no ambition at all. Also, you can see how calculated this order is in terms of delivery.
The delivery of this order begins in 2029, but it may be adjusted—possibly set earlier—depending on different factors; hence, its flexibility. Currently, Cebu Pacific still has 24 A320neo family aircraft and 7 A330neos from the previous order books prior to this recent order.
So I hope this explains the recent Cebu Pacific order, which is the largest aircraft order in Philippine aviation history. While it may seem too ambitious, it is actually well calculated, showing how dynamic Cebu Pacific is as an airline.
First love never dies. I fell in love with airplanes and aviation when I was a kid. My dream was to become a pilot, but destiny led me to another path: to be an aviation digital media content creator and a small business owner. My passion for aviation inspires me to bring you quality content through my website and social accounts. Aviation is indeed in my blood and blog!
