Citing Aussie govt data, Cebu Pacific says it outpaced competition in Manila-Sydney route

September 21, 2017 - 8:55 PM
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A Cebu Pacific plane. PHIL. STAR FILE PHOTO

MANILA – Cebu Pacific has reported the highest passenger market share on flights between Manila and Sydney, outperforming key competitors servicing the route.

Based on data from Australia’s Bureau of Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Economics’ (BITRE), Cebu Pacific captured 44% passenger market share of the Manila-Sydney route during the first five months of 2017. The report also highlighted that Cebu Pacific carried a total of 14,039 passengers, up 33% year-on-year.

For the entire month of May 2017, a total of 32,017 passengers flew between Manila and Sydney, 11% higher versus May 2016. This brings the total passenger volume to 175,782, up 12% year-on-year.

Meanwhile, CEB’s cargo volume grew 88% between Manila and Sydney, from 505 tons to 950 tons in May 2017 alone, with Cebu Pacific’s cargo services tripling, from 142 tons in May 2016 to 413 tons in May 2017.

From January to May 2017, total freight carried reached 4,064 tons – up 54% from the 2,633 tons carried in the same period in 2016, and consistent with increasing bilateral trade and investment relationship between the Philippines and Australia. Cebu Pacific captured the bulk of this growth volume, with 43% cargo market share in May 2017 alone, and 46% from January to May 2017.

“The statistics shared by Australia BITRE reflects our commitment to offer the Australian market great value, through efficient and safe travel between Sydney and Manila, at year-round lowest fares. We’re thrilled to see steady results as this maintains our position as the key player on the Sydney – Manila route,” said Candice Iyog, Vice President for Marketing and Distribution of Cebu Pacific.

Cebu Pacific is the only low-cost carrier with a direct connection between Manila and Sydney.

“Australia is one of our strongest international performers and we continue to see enormous growth and opportunities in the region. Our increased frequency will allow us to continue to offer Aussie travellers competitive year-round fares, driving tourism to the Philippines,” added Iyog.

CEB recently announced increased flight frequency between Manila and Sydney—from the current five times weekly to daily operations beginning December 01, 2017 to January 31, 2018. CEB also offers the most number of seats between Manila and Sydney.