Cebu Pacific launches Manila-Dubai flights

Cebu Air Inc., the owner and operator of budget carrier Cebu Pacific, on Monday launched its long-haul route – Manila-Dubai-Manila direct flights – in the spirit of hope that success will be kind as it was to its domestic and regional operations.

 

The airline is the first Philippine carrier in 15 years to land in Dubai, president and CEO Lance Gokongwei noted in an e-mailed statement. 

 

Witnessing the maiden flight to Dubai were Transportation and Communications Undersecretary Jose Perpetuo Lotilla, who also chairs the Philippine Air Negotiating Panel, the airline said. Key officials of the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates as well as the Civil Aeronautics Board, Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines and Manila International Airport Authority were at the airport during a send off ceremony.

 

In Dubai, a similar event marked the inaugural flight with Grace Princesa, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of the Philippines in the United Arab Emirates, heading the well-wishers.

 

“We proudly carry the Philippine flag in this historic moment,” said Gokongwei. “When we say we fly to where Filipinos are, we mean it. This was our mindset when we launched our first international flight to Hong Kong in 2001. This remains our mindset as we launch our 22nd international destination now,” he added. – VS, GMA News