The Philippines’ largest airline has confirmed an order for 70 Airbus A321neo jets, following a memo of understanding announced in July. Airbus did not indicate the value of the booking, but it would be worth about $9 billion based on the list price for the single-aisle aircraft.
The A321neo is a twin-engine, narrowbody aircraft that typically carries 180 to 220 passengers and is the longest variant of the A320neo series. Based on the A321 aircraft that was introduced in 1994, it was modified and reengined with the more fuel-efficient, geared turbofan GTF engine developed by Pratt & Whitney.
The original description of Cebu’s order involved as many as 152 new aircraft, suggesting a high number of purchase options in the contract.
“The selection of Airbus A321neo underscores our focus on operational efficiency, sustainability, and innovation, ensuring that we continue to deliver the highest standards of service while significantly reducing our carbon footprint,” stated CEO Mike Szucs of Cebu Pacific, a low-cost airline.
He added: “This milestone signals our ongoing dedication to expanding air travel accessibility and affordability, while supporting the Philippine’s broader economic growth and connectivity goals.”
Cebu Pacific currently operates 61 A320 series jets on domestic and regional routes, along with nine A330 widebody aircraft on high-density regional routes and to destinations in the Middle East.
The current order brings the airline’s backlog with Airbus to 94 A320neo series and seven A330neo jets.
