To capitalize on this momentum, local carriers are embarking on a massive fleet expansion to serve the anticipated rise in travel demand.
PAL is progressively renewing its fleet, with orders for nine Airbus A350-1000s for North American routes (deliveries starting in 2025) and 13 Airbus A321neos for regional routes (deliveries from 2026 to 2029).
Additionally, they recently acquired an additional 777-300ER aircraft as a first step towards strengthening their long-haul capabilities.
Cebu Pacific is also poised for fleet expansion as they are currently in talks with Airbus and Boeing for a potential $12 billion order of 150 aircraft.
Throughout 2023, the airline actively increased their fleet size by taking delivery of 18 new aircraft, enhancing their operational resilience and capacity. This year, they’ve already taken delivery of their third brand new Airbus A321neo.
AirAsia Philippines is another player joining the expansion race. Tan Sri Anthony Francis Fernandes, the company’s CEO, pledged a $1 billion investment to grow their Philippine operations. Their plan involves increasing their aircraft fleet from 23 to 50, with the inclusion of wide-body aircraft for longer-haul destinations.