✈️ Cebu Pacific shifts focus: why China is no longer a top priority

When a low-cost airline makes a bold move, the whole market feels it

You know how it goes—when a big player makes a move, the entire ecosystem reacts. That’s exactly what’s happening with Cebu Pacific, the largest low-cost airline in the Philippines. While everyone was waiting for a strong comeback in the Chinese market, they’ve made a hard pivot—and it could shake up travel across Asia.

🌏 China’s recovery is slow—and Cebu Pacific is done waiting

In a recent press briefing, Xander Lao, Cebu Pacific’s President and Chief Commercial Officer, dropped a data bomb:

“China remains one of those countries with a very poor post-pandemic recovery ratio.”

📉 That means tourism is still 83% below pre-pandemic levels.
And Cebu Pacific has had enough.

👉 The result? The airline is suspending flights between Manila and Beijing from March 30, with more routes likely to follow.

✈️ Strategic redeployment: chasing growth where it really happens

Idle planes are bad for business. So Cebu Pacific is redirecting its capacity to high-growth hubs where demand is booming:

🚀 27 new routes recently launched, including:

• 🇹🇭 Manila – Chiang Mai
• 🇯🇵 Cebu – Osaka
• 🇵🇭 Cebu – Palawan, Masbate, San Vicente
• 🇹🇭 Cebu – Bangkok Don Mueang

The goal? Dominate Southeast Asia, where borders are open and travel is booming again.

💼 A solid 2024: profits up despite rising costs

Let’s talk numbers (and they’re impressive):

📊 Operating profit up 7% → PHP 9.2 billion (~$160M)
📈 Revenue up 16% → PHP 104.9 billion
🧳 Passenger traffic up 18% → 24.5 million travelers

Yes, net profit dropped 32%—but that’s mostly due to:
✈️ fleet expansion costs,
🛫 higher airport fees,
👨‍✈️ and increased staffing expenses.

🌿 Going green: Cebu Pacific’s sustainability pivot

Cebu Pacific isn’t just expanding, it’s getting greener 🌱
They’ve partnered with ACEN Renewable Energy to power major facilities in Pasay with 100% clean energy.

The airline is also exploring sustainable aviation fuels and green operations. In a world where eco-consciousness is non-negotiable, this move boosts brand trust and visibility.

🧭 What’s next for Cebu Pacific?

Despite China setbacks, Cebu Pacific is full throttle:

📍 New bases launching in Davao and Iloilo
✈️ New connections to Bangkok and Hong Kong
🛫 Fleet expansion continues → 98 aircraft (+13 from last year)

Cebu Pacific is no longer just a budget airline—it’s becoming a strategic force in the Asian travel game.

💬 So, is now a good time to fly Cebu Pacific?

➡️ If you’re based in Asia or planning a trip soon, the answer is yes.
Here’s why:

• Competitive fares
• Rapidly growing route network
• Greener, cleaner, customer-focused operations

👉 Pro tip: Keep an eye on new routes—they often launch with aggressive promotions.