Want more Philippines? Cebu Pacific has just announced it will increase capacity between Melbourne and Manila, giving more choice to Victorians and other Australians considering a Philippine getaway.
Commencing December, Cebu Pacific will fly four times per week between Melbourne and the Philippines’ capital, up from three weekly services.
The Manila-based carrier will continue to utilise its A330-900neo on the route, with a carrying capacity of 459 passengers.
The extra frequency, which will take capacity between Melbourne and Manila to above pre-pandemic levels, comes in response to customer demand. And that demand isn’t just limited to the Philippines.
“Since the pandemic, we’ve seen Southeast Asia emerge as one of our best-performing markets, with three of the four fastest-growth countries coming from that region,” Melbourne Airport Chief of Aviation Jim Parashos said.
“The Philippines has seen a 43 per cent growth in passengers since the pandemic, while key markets such as Vietnam and Thailand have recorded 60 per cent and 25 per cent growth respectively.
“Since resuming operations at Melbourne Airport in March last year, Cebu Pacific has seen strong two-way demand for the service underpinned by international students, trade and tourism.
“The number of international students from the Philippines coming to Australia to study has doubled since 2019.
“Due to the high demand, we are working with Cebu Pacific to increase this service further and are hopeful they will move to five flights a week in the not-too-distant future.
“The international market at Melbourne Airport has shifted firmly from recovery to growth, and these services will solidify that position.”
Cebu Pacific President and Chief Commercial Officer Xander Lao said more flights to and from Melbourne should boost Aussie travel to the Philippines.
“We are excited to bring more Australian travellers to the Philippines as we increase the frequencies of our flights between Melbourne and Manila,” he said.
“The Philippines is home to a rich variety of sights and activities suited to every type of traveller.
“With our extensive domestic network and value-for-money fares, we hope more visitors from Down Under will get to experience the pristine beaches, delectable cuisines, and colourful festivals of the Philippines.”
Cebu Pacific also flies between Sydney and Manila five times per week.
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.
