Flight Review: Cebu Pacific Sydney-Manila-Sydney

By Hannah Edensor

We hopped on board to check out what Cebu has to offer.

Aircraft: Airbus A330-300

Class: Economy

Airline Code: CEB

Frequent Flyer: GetGo

Cebu Pacific launched direct services from Sydney to the Philippines capital Manila in September providing travellers with a low cost link to the flourishing tourism destination. Initially operating four times weekly, the Filipino low cost carrier added a fifth frequency after three months on the back of strong demand with further expansion on the cards.

Check In

Although web check-in is available, we opted for the old-fashioned method. The queue at Sydney Airport moved quickly thanks to the efficiency of the check-in staff, although on the return journey things moved a little more slowly.

We were able to gate-check our stroller with no problems, although there was a slight wait on the other end to retrieve it.

Cebu Pacific

On Board

A lack of any inflight entertainment on an eight-hour flight can be a little daunting. The “fun games” put on by the cabin crew with prizes to be won lasted filled up around five minutes of the journey, but the rest of the time you’re left to your own devices, so be sure to bring a book or iPad. On the return night flight, the games kicked off at an unholy hour of the morning so be warned.

The all-economy aircraft has 436 seats which are adequately spaced with a decent recline. But the service’s main plus is the cabin crew who were friendly and accommodating, going beyond the call of duty to ensure we were well-fed and watered.

Meals

Not included in the fare, meals are listed in the inflight magazine and range from snackier options at 350 PHP (AU$10.18) to meals including dessert at 500 PHP (AU$14.54) – definitely not cheap, but quite edible. I have the Korean BBQ chicken which comes with rice and boiled vegetables followed by a brownie which keeps my sweet tooth more than happy. Nibbly again later on in the flight, I go for the honey glazed chicken – a little soggy but quite tasty. Cups of instant noodles, sandwiches and sweet snacks are also available.

Water is provided but other drinks, including tea and coffee, have a price tag.

Overall

It’s certainly not the most luxurious way to travel but, with the price taken into account, it’s a comfortable and pleasant enough way to make the journey to the Philippines.

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