Cebu: Low-cost carrier Cebu Pacific completed an aircraft turnaround at the Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) on Tuesday, fully using zero-emission electric ground support equipment (GSE). This achievement marks a significant step in the airline’s efforts towards sustainable aviation.
According to Philippines News Agency, every aspect of the flight preparation, from loading bags and cargo to refueling, boarding, and pushback, was powered entirely by electric GSE. This initiative reflects the Gokongwei-led carrier’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and supporting airports with similar sustainability goals.
“This milestone shows our strong commitment to decarbonizing our operations and supporting airports that share the same sustainability goals. We are proud to be the first airline in the Philippines to fully turn around an aircraft using electric equipment. It is even more meaningful that it was done in Cebu, the place where our airline began,” said CEB chief operations officer Javier Massot in a statement.
The full electric turnaround was performed on CEB flight 5J566 bound for Manila, in collaboration with MCIA operator Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corporation (ACAC) and electric GSE provider TLD Asia. The ACAC is exploring the potential for broader application of this initiative across all MCIA flights in the future.
“Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corporation is dedicated to supporting green innovations that align with our commitment to environmental sustainability,” stated Athanasios Titonis, ACAC chief executive officer.
Previously, Cebu Pacific introduced a bridge-mounted equipment (BME) at MCIA in August 2024. This equipment, which was also used during the recent flight 5J566, helps airlines reduce fuel costs by decreasing carbon emissions through the use of fixed power and pre-conditioned air units, eliminating the need for jet fuel-powered auxiliary power units.
In a social media update, MCIA announced plans to build common-use charging stations to facilitate more airlines in transitioning to electric equipment. “As part of our ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability, we focus on expanding infrastructure for green aviation fuels and zero-emission electric ground support equipment,” said Mactan-Cebu Airport Authority general manager Julius Neri.
