Cebu Pacific, MCIA Launch New Ground Equipment Technology to Reduce Carbon Emissions

​Cebu Pacific has been chosen by Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) to pilot the usage of bridge-mounted equipment (BME), a major program aimed at improving long-term operations and efficiency. 

At the formal plug-in event on August 14, 2024, a CEB A321neo flying flight 5J 5063 from Tokyo to Cebu was connected to MCIA's newly installed BME system. This technology uses a fixed power unit (FPU) and a pre-conditioned air (PCA) unit to provide power and cabin conditioning on the tarmac without relying on the aircraft's jet fuel-powered auxiliary power units. This system enables airlines to cut costs and reduce their environmental impact.

“Cebu Pacific fully supports Mactan Cebu International Airport’s ground power initiatives. This represents a crucial step in creating a sustainable future for Philippine aviation. We are honored to be the first airline to use this technology at MCIA,” said Lei Apostol, CEB Vice President for Customer Service Operations.

As the pioneering airport in the Philippines to deploy FPU and PCA units, MCIA is committed to lowering its overall environmental impact while also providing a safe and efficient working environment.

“International airports like Hong Kong, Zurich, Dublin and Munich have adopted these innovative solutions to minimize their ecological footprint, and MCIA is thrilled to join these airports and hopeful about its impact in the global sustainability movement,” said Athanasios Titonis, CEO of Aboitiz GMR-Megawide Cebu Airport Corporation (AGMCAC), operator of MCIA.

MCIA put the BME's power and air-cooling units beneath the passenger boarding bridge for convenience of usage during aircraft maintenance. This approach is projected to lower airplane fuel consumption, auxiliary power unit maintenance costs, carbon emissions, airport noise levels, and increase operational safety and efficiency. 

“Being the second busiest airport in the country, we want to make sure to manage our carbon footprint and maintain good air quality for both passengers and workers in the airport. This is why we highly encourage airlines to use FPU and PCA units,” said Julius Neri Jr., General Manager and CEO of the Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority.

Cebu Pacific is the first airline to employ the new BME technology at the Mactan-Cebu International Airport. This initiative demonstrates a combined commitment between the airline and the airport to increase efficiency and decrease environmental impact, establishing a new standard for sustainable practices in Philippine aviation.​