Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB), the Philippines’ leading carrier, took significant strides in its sustainability initiatives in 2022, with an emphasis on reducing its carbon footprint and enhancing operational efficiency.
In its 2022 Sustainability Report, CEB reaffirmed its commitment to decarbonization, mainly through its fleet modernization program. The airline aims to transition to an all-New Engine Option (NEO) fleet by 2028. The program is set to reduce CO2 emissions per passenger between 17% to 29%.
“Acquiring and maintaining next-generation aircraft is vital to meeting our climate goals and maintaining high-quality services. We have implemented a capital expenditure program to replace our older aircraft with fuel-efficient NEO aircraft by 2028,” said Alex Reyes, Cebu Pacific’s Chief Strategy Officer.
CEB has also increased and improved its fuel efficiency practices, cutting its fuel usage by about 7.9 million kilograms last year, avoiding 25,059 tonnes of CO2 emissions.
Additionally, CEB has successfully integrated sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) into its operations with a series of new Airbus aircraft delivery flights and the launch of its maiden commercial SAF-powered flight from Singapore to Manila in 2022. This initiative distinguished CEB as the first low-cost carrier in Southeast Asia, and the first in the Philippines, to use SAF in its operations.
“We are proud to be the first airline in Southeast Asia to use sustainable aviation fuel. Our effort to partner with SAF suppliers is one of the many initiatives positioning us to meet the demands of our customers for responsible and convenient air travel. It also allows us to explore opportunities to shift to more sustainable operations en route to our goal of flying net zero by 2050,” said Alexander Lao, President and Chief Commercial Officer of Cebu Pacific.
Looking ahead, CEB aims to increase its sustainability efforts in 2023. These initiatives include partnering with South Pole, a leading climate solutions company, to determine CEB’s greenhouse gas emissions and reduction strategies. Discussions are also underway with carbon project developers and credit providers for potential investments in carbon removal and offsetting.
The airline also plans to address its ground operations emissions and transition to an all-electric, zero-emission ground support equipment (GSE) fleet.
Going beyond operational improvements, CEB continues to foster stronger community ties through a three-year partnership with Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI). This initiative will facilitate training for the Tapon fisherfolk association in Dumanjug, Cebu, empowering them with skills in establishing, planting, and maintaining mangrove forests. The program promises to enhance the local environment and build a community resilient to disasters and actively engaged in reducing carbon emissions.
Read more about Cebu Pacific’s recent sustainability initiatives here.
