Cebu Pacific flies 13.3-M passengers in 2012, up 11%

MANILA, Philippines – Budget carrier Cebu Pacific Air flew 13.26 million passengers in 2012, lower than the airline’s 14 million goal.

The annual total, however, reflected an 11% increase from previous year’s 11.93 milion passengers. In a statement on Thursday, January 24, the Gokongwei-led airline attributed the double-digit growth to route network expansion, promotional fares, and the Philippine government’s efforts to promote tourism.

In 2012, the airline launched new routes, including direct flights from Manila to Hanoi, Siem Reap and Xiamen; from Cebu to Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur; and from Iloilo to Hong Kong and Singapore.

The highest passenger growth rates were noted in the following international markets:

• Brunei, 32%
• Vietnam, 30%
• China, 29%
• Taiwan, 22%
• Malaysia, 21%

For local destinations, it competed with bus transport services for routes like Davao-Dipolog and Zamboanga-Cagayan de Oro.

It said the operations from its hub in Cebu grew 20% and Davao 16%. – Rappler.com