Gokongwei-led Cebu Pacific (CEB) strengthens its inter-island connectivity with a new ATR 72-600 aircraft — the sixth aircraft delivery for the current year, adding to its fleet of advanced turboprop aircraft.

CEB said on Tuesday that the new aircraft, which arrived at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Manila last 5 June, is part of the required investments to serve passengers traveling between inter-island destinations.

"With over 7,100 islands in the Philippines, our commitment to serve passengers traveling between inter-island destinations necessitates the investment in turboprop aircraft," stated CEB CEO Michael Szucs.

Largest turboprop fleet

“This aircraft delivery brings our turboprop fleet to 15, and we will be receiving our sixteenth ATR turboprop in October. With this, CEB will be operating the largest turboprop fleet in the Philippines, enabling us to serve more passengers across the country,” he added.

CEB's domestic turboprop fleet serves approximately 2.5 million passengers annually, connecting 25 domestic destinations.

Notably, some of these destinations, including Camiguin, Calbayog, Siargao, Masbate, Surigao, Busuanga and Naga, can only be reached by smaller aircraft and turboprops.

Among CEB's turboprop fleet is the ATR 72-600, a cutting-edge twin-engine turboprop airliner manufactured in France and Italy by Avions de Transport Regional. This aircraft is widely utilized by airlines around the world for regional operations.

Aircraft’s capabilities

The ATR 72-600 is capable of navigating short, narrow, and unpaved runways, handling steep approaches, and performing high-altitude landings and takeoffs.

With a maximum range of 1,300 kilometers depending on payload, the aircraft can accommodate approximately 78 passengers.