Cebu Pacific starts flights to Shenzhen

MANILA, Philippines — Gokongwei-owned Cebu Pacific is further expanding its reach in mainland China with the commencement of direct commercial service between Manila and Shenzhen next month.

The launch of the new route is in line with its plans to widen its route network in China to cater to the increasing demand for leisure and business travel.

Shenzhen is the fifth Cebu Pacific destination in mainland China and is the airline’s 27th international destination.

Cebu Pacific earlier expressed its intention to expand in North Asia, including opening significant new routes and possible new destinations in China.

Flights between Manila and Shenzhen will run four times weekly—every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, starting on July 1.

“At only two hours and 40 minutes’ flying time, the evening departure of the flights will enable travelers to make full use of business hours, both in Manila and in Shenzhen,” Cebu Pacific said.

As China’s first special economic zone, Shenzhen is an important city for sourcing of goods for those engaged in trade. It is also a retail mecca for bargain-hunters and is dubbed as “China’s Silicon Valley” as it serves as headquarters for tech giants such as Huawei, BGI, BYD and Tencent.

“We want to provide our travelers a viable option to reach some of the most crucial commercial centers in the world. Our new direct service between Manila and Shenzhen will enable faster movement of people and products providing increased mobility and access in some of the fastest-growing economies in the world,” Cebu Pacific vice president for marketing and distribution Candice Iyog said.