Seeing a good business opportunity in the midst of the pandemic, Cebu Pacific (CEB) is expanding its cargo fleet and recently took delivery of its second ATR cargo freighter to strengthen its domestic cargo operations in airports with short runways.

So far, only a third of the Philippines' airports can accommodate jet aircraft. The rest can only be served by turboprops.

"We saw this pandemic as an opportunity to recalibrate our business and optimize operations to address the needs of our customers," confirmed Alex Reyes, President and CEO of Cebgo.

"There is a growing demand for cargo to and from the Philippines and our fleet of dedicated cargo aircraft allows us to address this while doing so in a more efficient manner, he explained.

CEB's newest ATR 72-500 aircraft, with tail number RP-C7253, was converted at the Sabena Technics DNR S.A.S. facility in Dinard, France. It's the second of CEB's freighters dedicated exclusively to cargo.

The airlines first freighter arrived in August, 2019 and was likewise converted at the same facility.

Both ATR freighters, operated by CEBs subsidiary Cebgo, are equipped with a Large Cargo Door, with a capacity for eight tons of palletized cargo.

Apart from its two ATR freighters, CEB has also recently modified one of its A330 aircraft into an all-cargo configuration, removing seats so that cargo can be carried in the main deck.

CEB has ensured transport of essential goods is not hampered, especially during this time.

The carrier exoects its cargo business will continue to flourish. Hence, its investment in dedicated cargo aircraft supports its commitment to continue providing affordable and accessible air travel services for everyone.