Budget airline Cebu Pacific (CEB) seeks to advance its mission of making air travel more affordable and accessible across the region after being named Asia’s Low-Cost Airline of the Year.

The Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation (CAPA) recognized the Gokongwei-led airline for its strong business performance, strategic innovation, and lasting impact on the low-cost airline industry.

“We are deeply honored to receive this award from CAPA. It recognizes the passion and commitment of every Cebu Pacific employee who works hard each day to make flying safe, affordable, and accessible for our passengers,” CEB Chief Executive Officer Mike Szucs said on Friday.

“As we expand our reach, our purpose remains clear—to connect people and communities, and to help fuel tourism and economic growth across the Philippines and the Asia-Pacific.”

The CAPA Awards for Excellence are independently researched by an international panel of judges and analysts, and are not influenced by customer surveys or sponsorship.

CEB stood out for its record-breaking passenger growth and strong financial results. 

From January to September, the airline carried nearly 20 million passengers, a 13.9 percent increase from 17.5 million in the same period last year. Domestic passengers increased 12.7 percent to 14.9 million, while international passengers grew 17.7 percent to 5.1 million.

The carrier posted an average seat load factor of 84.8 percent and increased capacity by 14 percent to 23.5 million seats during the nine months.

CEB’s low-cost model has been credited with transforming air travel in the country by expanding connectivity, opening new routes, and keeping fares within reach of more travelers. To sustain its growth, the airline has invested heavily in its fleet and network, including a record-breaking order for up to 152 Airbus A321neo aircraft—the largest in local aviation history.

The airline now flies to 37 domestic and 26 international destinations across Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.