Cebu Pacific is scaling up its operations in Bohol, rolling out more frequent flights and deploying bigger aircraft to meet rising demand. Starting November 16, 2025, the airline will fly the 459 seat Airbus A330neo aircraft on the Manila to Bohol route seven times a week. This move is part of a broader strategy of “upgauging” which is using larger jets instead of many small ones allowing the airline to carry more passengers without multiplying flight numbers.
More Flights, More Seats
Cebu Pacific currently serves Bohol with routes connecting Manila, Clark, Iloilo, Davao, and El Nido. With the expansion, flight frequencies will increase up to five daily flights to Manila, seven times weekly to El Nido, and four times weekly to Iloilo from Bohol. The total seat capacity from Bohol is projected to jump by 13% from 93,000 to 105,000 seats during December. Some existing routes will also see aircraft upgrades. Smaller planes with 86 seats are being replaced by 199 seat aircraft on select legs adding more breathing room for passengers.
Strategic Use of the A330neo
The A330neo aircraft which can seat up to 459 passengers will be used for the Manila to Bohol corridor starting November 16. This deployment signals Cebu Pacific’s confidence in Bohol’s travel demand and tourism potential.
By consolidating demand into larger aircraft, the airline expects to improve operational efficiency and offer more “seat options” without necessarily adding more flights helpful in airport slot constraints and crew scheduling.
For Bohol and its islands, this expansion by Cebu Pacific means more access, more flexibility, and often lower cost per seat. Travelers may find it easier to fly in or out and the tourism sector could gain new momentum. Expect to see fuller skies above Loboc, Panglao, and the Chocolate Hills in the coming months.
