The Philippines’ leading carrier Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB) is set to transfer its operations to the new Bicol International Airport effective October 8, Friday, following its inauguration on October 7.
Bicol International Airport, which has a capacity of up to two million passengers per year, will replace the existing Legazpi Domestic Airport.
CEB has been mounting flights to and from Legazpi since 2006, flying about 4.5 million passengers over the past 15 years. Cebu Pacific currently flies 11x weekly between Manila and Legazpi. Pre-pandemic, CEB flew 5x daily between Manila and Legazpi, on top of 1x daily flights to and from Cebu.
“We have consistently maintained our presence at the Bicol region and we remain committed to continue supporting its growth. The new airport is a welcome development as this will enable us to increase passenger and cargo flights once demand picks up, and will consequently contribute to the region’s economic recovery,” said Xander Lao, Chief Commercial Officer at Cebu Pacific.
CEB and its wholly-owned subsidiary Cebgo, operates the widest domestic network in the Philippines, on top of its extensive international network that spans across Asia and the Middle East. Its 73-strong fleet, one of the youngest in the world, includes two (2) dedicated ATR freighters and a A330 cabin cargo capable aircraft.
CEB has been rated 7/7 stars by airlineratings.com for its COVID-19 compliance as it continues to implement a multi-layered approach to safety, in accordance with global aviation standards. These include daily extensive cleaning and disinfection protocols for all aircraft and facilities, antigen testing before duty for all frontliners and crew members, and contactless flight procedures. Its jet fleet are equipped with hospital grade HEPA air filters, keeping viruses at bay.
To date, CEB has vaccinated 97% of its flying crew and expects to complete employee inoculation by October this year.