Cebu Pacific in it for the long term with PW1100G

Cebu Pacific sees challenges relating to the Pratt & Whitney PW1100G easing and is confident in the long-term outlook for the troubled powerplant. Asked on earnings call about the decision to stick with the P&W engine in its recent commitment for up to 152 A320neos, chief financial officer Mark Cezar says the carrier is optimistic about the PW1100G’s long-term future, although it did look at the competing CFM International LEAP-1A. “We had a long, good look at the LEAP engine, and ultimately I think this is a decision that we will have to wear for a really long time, well into the 2040s based on our pattern of usage, of using aircraft for 10-12 years,” says Cezar. “These are aircraft and engines that will stay in our fleet well into the 2040s, so we had to make a decision on what we think reasonably will happen, and which one will be the better engine in the longer term.” The company opted to stay with P&W despite years of challenges with the PW1100G in its existing fleet: as recently as November 2023, the carrier expected to have up to 20 A320neo family jets grounded throughout the year, placing significant constraints on its ability to boost capacity. Cebu’s fleet composition underlines its exposure to the troubled powerplant. As of end June, 44 of Cebu’s 87 aircraft were PW1100G-powered A320neos. It also operates 26 A320s and 17 ATRs. The year 2024, however, has proven somewhat better than expected, with 10-15 aircraft on the ground, as opposed the 20 anticipated. This has helped the airline boost capacity.<br/>