Love the Philippines? The country’s largest carrier, Cebu Pacific (CEB), will increase its Sydney-Manila flights to a daily service as it celebrates a decade of flying to Australia’s busiest airport.
Commencing 1 December 2024, the new flights will operate using Cebu Pacific’s A330neo jet. Featuring 459 economy seats, these jets burn 15 per cent less fuel and are quieter than the previous generation.
With Cebu’s upgrade, Sydney-Manila capacity will move to 44 per cent above December 2019 levels.
“We are proud to be the only airport in Australia offering a daily service to Manila, providing passengers with unprecedented choice and convenience when travelling to Sydney,” Sydney Airport CEO Scott Charlton said.
“This new route not only strengthens our ties with the Philippines but also offers passengers seamless access to Manila, opening a world of opportunities for business and leisure alike.
“We are thrilled to support Cebu Pacific in delivering this valuable service and look forward to the positive impact it will have on both our communities.”
Multiple markets
While the enhanced service is expected to be popular with VFR (visiting friends and relatives) travellers – an established and strong market due to Sydney’s huge Filipino community – the new flights should also provide a boost for leisure travel to the Southeast Asian nation, famed for its white sand beaches and warm hospitality.
Cebu’s Sydney service kicked off on 9 September 2014 and is now one of the airline’s most popular international routes.
“We are thrilled to be expanding our network at Sydney Airport. This development is a testament to our commitment to enhancing global connectivity and providing greater convenience for our passengers from Australia,” CEB President and Chief Commercial Officer Xander Lao said.
“The Philippines is home to a wide variety of sights and activities suited to every type of traveller. With our widest domestic network and value-for-money fares, we hope more visitors from Sydney will be able to explore the pristine beaches, delectable cuisines, and colourful festivals of the Philippines.”
To mark the launch of daily services, CEB is offering a sale until 10 September, with flights to Manila flights starting from just AU$209 one-way for travel between 1 November 2024 and 31 May 2025.
More Melbourne
In August, Cebu Pacific announced it will also increase capacity between Melbourne and Manila, giving more choice to Victorians and other Australians considering a Philippine getaway.
Earlier this year, in an Australian exclusive, Karryon chatted with Cebu Pacific CEO Michael Szucs about the airline’s Aussie services, its low fares and the new airport that could change the landscape of tourism in the Philippines.
