Cebu Pacific widens lead on expanded routes, fleet

Low-cost carrier Cebu Pacific increased its market share in Philippine air traffic in 2024, carrying 38 percent of passengers to stamp its mark as the leading airline in the country.

- By ELIJAH FELICE ROSALES

Based on data from the Civil Aeronautics Board, the Philippines raised its air passenger volume by 11 percent to 59.91 million in 2024, from 53.78 million in 2023.

This means the air traffic footprint is closer to breaking the pre-pandemic high of 60.07 million in 2019, as carriers offered more flights and new routes to stimulate travel demand.

Among all airlines, Cebu Pacific dominated the industry with a market share of 38 percent, well ahead of its closest rival Philippine Airlines (PAL) with 26 percent. Cebu Pacific ended last year with a fleet of 91 aircraft, taking on fresh assets to support new flights, such as to Chiang Mai.