By John Verghese/Manila

The Philippines’ largest airline, Cebu Pacific Air (CEB) has launched twice weekly non-stop flights between Manila and Doha.
The launch of the service has thus made Cebu Pacific the first Philippine carrier to land in Doha.
The airline which has lowest year-round fares between Manila and Doha start at QR688, which is approximately 50% lower than other airlines.
“We look forward to offering Cebu Pacific’s trademark low fares to travellers in Doha, especially since we are the only low-cost carrier operating this route. With our expanding network, Qatar becomes more accessible from the Philippines, and the Filipino community can reunite with their families more often,” said CEB General Manager for Long-Haul Division Alex Reyes.
The non-stop service departs Doha every Tuesday and Friday at 4.15am, arriving in Manila at 6.35pm. The return flight departs Manila every Monday and Thursday at 9.35pm, arriving in Doha at 2.45am the next day.
This new route utilises CEB’s brand-new Airbus A330-300 aircraft, with a configuration of 436 all-economy class seats. Hot meals, seats with extra legroom and Wi-Fi onboard, among others, are options that can be added to the fare.
CEB also offers fast and convenient same-terminal connecting flights for guests taking advantage of CEB’s extensive Philippine network.
CEB already serves the other two key markets of United Arab Emirates via direct flights to Dubai, and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia via Riyadh. CEB is also the only airline flying direct between Manila and Kuwait.
In his comments in the departures area at the Hamad International Airport (HIA), Philippine ambassador to Qatar Wilfredo C Santos, said: “Cebu Pacific’s presence in Qatar will not only benefit the more than 200,000 Filipinos, but also both Qataris and the country’s flourishing expat population who will now be more enticed to visit the Philippines with its affordable rates. We are hoping to tap Cebu Pacific as the embassy’s partner in promoting Philippine tourism in Qatar.”
The first day’s service received excellent response from Doha, with the flight running to nearly full capacity.
“Hamad International Airport is pleased to have added one more airline to its operations and we would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Cebu Pacific Air on its growth and success,” said Badr Mohamed al-Meer, Chief Operating Officer at Hamad International Airport. “As the gateway into Qatar and to the rest of the world, we are glad to have the opportunity to facilitate easy and convenient passage to the Philippines,” he said.
For bookings and inquiries, guests can visit www.cebupacificair.com or contact the airline’s general sales agent in Qatar, Regency Travel and Tours.
Cebu Pacific’s 55-strong fleet comprises 10 Airbus A319, 31 Airbus A320, six Airbus A330 and eight ATR-72 500 aircraft. Between 2015 and 2021, Cebu Pacific will take delivery of seven more brand-new Airbus A320 and 30 Airbus A321neo aircraft.

Related Story