MANILA, Philippines - Expanded operations locally and internationally pushed budget carrier Cebu Pacific to reach 13.26 million passengers in 2012, 11 percent more than the 11.93 million passengers flown in 2011, Cebu, Inc. reported on Friday.
In a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange, the country's largest flag carrier said direct flights from Manila to Hanoi, Siem Reap and Xiamen, Cebu to Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur and direct flights from Iloilo to Hong Kong and Singapore accounted for the increase in passengers.
"This expansion, as well as seat sales and strengthened tourism promotions, led to notable passenger growth in the following international markets: Malaysia (21 percent), Taiwan (22 percent), China (29 percent), Vietnam (30 percent) and Brunei (32 percent)," the listed company said.
It added that 10 domestic routes were also launched, including flights from Davao to Dipolog and Zamboanga to Cagayan de Oro, where passengers take 12 to 14-hour bus rides.
The airline's Cebu hub also grew by 20 percent, and its Davao hub increased by 16 percent, it said.
“It is very fulfilling for us in the Cebu Pacific team to continue giving travellers new destinations, the lowest fares and direct flight options. The Philippines’ momentum when it comes to tourism buzz will be supported by Cebu Pacific’s expansion to more regions in the world,†said Cebu Air Vice President for Marketing and Distribution Candice Iyog.
The airline said it will launch its Manila to Bali (Denpasar) flights in March 16 this year, while its long-haul operations will start on Oct. 7 with the launch of Manila to Dubai flights.
Cebu Pacific currently owns 10 Airbus A319 units, 24 Airbus A320 and eight ATR 72-500 aircraft. The company has also ordered 18 more Airbus A320 and 30 Airbus A321neo aircraft to be delivered between 2013 and 2021.