PAL, Cebu Pacific say jet fuel enough, for now

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March 26, 2026 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines — The country’s largest carriers have assured the public that they can complete scheduled flights for now, even as jet fuel prices are approaching the $200 per barrel level due to security tensions in the Middle East.

Flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) yesterday said it is equipped with the needed volume of jet fuel to deliver scheduled flights to domestic, regional and long-range destinations.

“PAL has secured sufficient jet fuel supply to support scheduled operations, including long-haul flights, for the foreseeable future,” PAL said.

While it recognized that jet fuel pricing and supply are in a precarious state, PAL said it is committed to work with aviation suppliers, government regulators and industry colleagues in sustaining operational stability.

Still, PAL canceled multiple flights to the Middle East to ensure the safety of passengers and its crew in the wake of airspace closures. It is calling off Manila flights to Riyadh until the end of March, with Saudi Arabia still dealing with Iranian strikes.

Prior to this, PAL suspended all flights to Doha and Dubai until April 30, citing concerns on the airspace closures in the Middle East, which is causing network instability.

Low-cost carrier Cebu Pacific is also supplied with jet fuel lasting until April, as it is now trying to build up its inventory for May and, if possible, beyond.

Cebu Pacific, however, requires less jet fuel in delivering most of its flights, with three in four of its destinations domestic and limited exposure to long-range flights.

On top of this, Cebu Pacific operates one of the world’s youngest fleets, of which 72 percent are new engine options. The AirbusA320neo, for instance, is considered as one of the most efficient aircraft right now, burning 20 percent less fuel per trip.

Cebu Pacific earned P12.3 billion in 2025, so it is armed with enough resources in the event the fuel crisis drags out. The airline also flies more than half of the domestic market, as it also raised its international share to 22 percent.

However, Cebu Pacific is cutting back some international flights from Cebu, Clark, Davao, Iloilo and Manila.

Based on data from the International Air Transport Association, jet fuel prices have increased by 13 percent on a weekly basis to $197 per barrel as of March 20.