Broughton wingmakers: Cebu Pacific firms up order for 70 Airbus A321 jets

In a significant boost for Airbus and its Broughton wingmakers, Cebu Pacific of the Philippines has finalised a firm order for 70 A321neo aircraft.

The deal, initially outlined in a memorandum of understanding (MoU) in July, was formally signed in Manila by Cebu Pacific’s CEO, Mike Szucs, and Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Executive Vice President of Sales at Airbus.

The A321neo aircraft, the largest member of Airbus’ A320neo family, will help Cebu Pacific continue its growth trajectory while enhancing operational efficiency and reducing environmental impact.

The aircraft’s cutting-edge design, which includes new-generation engines and fuel-saving Sharklets, offers a significant reduction in fuel consumption and carbon emissions—more than 20% lower compared to older models.

Mike Szucs, CEO of Cebu Pacific, hailed the purchase as a milestone for the airline’s ongoing development.

“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,” he said.

Szucs also emphasised the airline’s commitment to improving air travel access and affordability in the Philippines, while contributing to the nation’s broader economic and connectivity goals.

Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, representing Airbus, expressed gratitude for Cebu Pacific’s longstanding partnership with the aircraft manufacturer.

“The A320 Family has supported Cebu Pacific’s domestic and short-haul international network growth over the last two decades,” de Saint-Exupéry stated.

He added that the A321neo’s unmatched fuel efficiency and performance would help the airline in its next phase of expansion, further cementing its position as one of the leading low-cost carriers in the Asia-Pacific region.

Cebu Pacific, a long-standing Airbus customer, already operates a fleet of 61 A320 Family aircraft.

Additionally, the airline flies nine Airbus A330 widebody planes on high-density regional routes, including services to the Middle East. With this latest agreement, Cebu Pacific’s order book with Airbus now includes 94 A320neo Family aircraft and seven A330neo jets.

The A321neo’s advanced technology and environmental benefits, including a 50% noise reduction, continue to make it a popular choice among airlines worldwide.

To date, over 6,500 A321neo aircraft have been ordered by more than 90 airlines globally.

All the wings for these jets are made at Airbus in Broughton.