The Philippines’ leading airline, Cebu Pacific (PSE:CEB) has been removed from the list of airlines banned from operating in European Union (EU) member countries. The European Commission (EC) formally announced this last April 10, 2014.
MANILA, Philippines – In an EC press release, airlines in 20 states continue to be banned from operating in the EU. While the Philippines is still included, two Philippine carriers, one of which is CEB, are now exempted from the ban.
“We welcome this development, as it is a testament to Cebu Pacific’s commitment to safety and full compliance with international aviation safety standards. This would not have been possible without the full support of the Philippine government, and especially the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines,” said Lance Gokongwei, Cebu Pacific President and CEO.
“This enables Cebu Pacific to continue flying to where the Filipinos are. With nearly a million Filipinos working in the EU, we look forward to offering CEB’s trademark lowest fares, and the most extensive route network in the Philippines,” added Gokongwei.
“The decision of the European Commission to lift the ban on Cebu Pacific shows the ability of Philippine authorities and business to work with the EU to raise standards and create economic opportunity,” said Julian Vassallo, Charge d’affaires at the Delegation of the European Union to the Philippines. “Having demonstrated their commitment and capacity to adhere to international standards, we heartily welcome Cebu Pacific to European skies.”
CEB currently operates a fleet of 50 aircraft comprised of 10 Airbus A319, 29 Airbus A320, 3 Airbus A330 and 8 ATR-72 500 aircraft. Between 2014 and 2021, Cebu Pacific will take delivery of 12 more Airbus A320, 30 Airbus A321neo, and 3 Airbus A330 aircraft.
CEB has a joint venture with Singapore Airlines Engineering Company for SIA Engineering (Philippines) Corporation, a state-of-the-art MRO facility located in Clark, Philippines. CEB also has a joint venture with Canada-based CAE, a world leader in aviation training, called the Philippine Academy for Aviation Training (PAAT). PAAT is an Airbus A320 type-rating and recurrent training center for pilots in the region.
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