Cebu Pacific Air is launch customer for the Recaro SL3510 in the APAC region

The leading Philippine carrier is expecting to grow its 56-strong fleet to over 80 aircraft, with an expansion plan that includes orders for 30 new A321neos, between 2017 and 2021. In its 20-year history, the low-cost carrier has expanded from servicing one route in 1996 to now flying over 90 routes to 64 domestic and international destinations out of six hubs in the Philippines.

"We have always been a firm advocate of innovative and economic solutions that ensure the best travel experience for our passengers," says Lance Gokongwei, President and Chief Executive Officer of Cebu Pacific Air. "It is with this mission in mind that we have decided to equip our upcoming brand-new Airbus A321neos with Recaro SL3510 seats. The ergonomic seats will not only contribute to our valued guests’ comfort on-board, but also help us reduce fuel burn with their lightweight, cost-efficient design. We look forward to providing even more affordable and enjoyable flights to all our customers."

At around 9 kg (approximately 20 lb.), the Recaro SL3510 is currently one of the lightest economy class seats on the market, weighing around 40 percent less than conventional economy class seat models. Instead of foam, a thinner and much lighter innovative netting material forms the core of the seat’s backrest. The weight of the seat is reduced while space is increased: with a thinner backrest, the space between seat rows and consequently the living space for passengers is increased. At the same time, the netting material ergonomically conforms to the shape of the passenger’s spine, making the seat very comfortable.

"We are honored that an important Philippine airline has selected our award-winning SL3510 seat model for their new aircraft," says Dr. Mark Hiller, Chief Executive Officer and Shareholder of Recaro Aircraft Seating. "Cebu Pacific Air is our launch customer for this seat in the APAC region. Given that both our companies are two strong, reliable brands that have been expanding significantly in this region, I am looking forward to a mutually very beneficial collaboration."

With a subsidiary in Qingdao, China, a service center in Hong Kong as well as a new APAC hub in Hong Kong, Recaro Aircraft Seating has geared up to meet the growing demand of the Asian-Pacific market. According to an estimate from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), in the next 20 years more than half of all air travel will touch in the APAC region, a 40 percent increase from present rates. This increase will account for two-thirds of global aviation growth, boosting new aircraft sales.

"The fact that Cebu Pacific Air will significantly increase its fleet’s size over the next five years alone reflects the growing demand for flights and the steep increase in air traffic in the region," explains Hiller. "Both our companies are prepared and eager to serve APAC."