Cebu Pacific launches direct flights to Chiang Mai


Gokongwei-led Cebu Air Inc., the operator of Cebu Pacific, has added a new route to Thailand as part of its ongoing commitment to offer more destinations to travelers and serve the growing demand of tourists to its Southeast Asian peer.

In a statement on Wednesday, Oct. 30, Cebu Pacific said it officially inaugurated on Oct. 29 a new flight to Chiang Mai, its third route to Thailand after Bangkok via Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi airports.

Manila to Chiang Mai flights will operate three times weekly—every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday.

In his speech during the launch, Cebu Pacific President and Chief Commercial Officer Xander Lao noted the airline’s commitment to offering passengers more opportunities to explore the world.

“For years, Cebu Pacific has been dedicated to connecting Filipinos not only to essential destinations, but also to popular places that were previously difficult to reach. More than adding to Cebu Pacific’s growing network, the launch of the Manila-Chiang Mai also serves as a testament to Cebu Pacific’s commitment to making air travel more accessible for every Juan,” he added.

With the new route, travelers can save eight hours travel time in visiting Chiang Mai, where the famous Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is located and where the Lantern Festival is held every November.

Cebu Pacific has been actively pursuing an expansion strategy this year. Just recently, it announced what it touted as the “largest aircraft purchase” in Philippine history with the purchase of 152 aircraft from Airbus for $24 billion to offer more flights to its flyers.

Last week, it also announced daily flights between Iloilo and Tagbilaran, Bohol, which will begin on December 1; as well as thrice-a-week flights to and from Daraga, Albay; and Dumaguete in Negros Oriental.