WITH more companies conducting sustainable initiatives, the low-cost carrier Cebu Pacific (CEB) said that they have initiated the first use of electric buses in order to transport the passengers going to and from the boarding gate and aircraft at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

In a statement, CEB said that they have 25 buses that are being run by conventional fuel at the NAIA. 

They said that two leased electric buses had joined the fleet.

"Our long-term goal is the complete transition to electric, zero-emission vehicles and equipment. However, there's no timeline yet," CEB spokesperson Carmina Romero said.

Romero added that the CEB is the only local carrier that uses electric shuttle buses in the country.

She added that the program was designed to provide insights into the real-world performance of electric buses, she added.

"Cebu Pacific is expanding its decarbonization efforts beyond modernization of its aircraft. Integrating electric buses into our ground operations is a move in this direction. Through this approach, we aim not only to reduce our carbon footprint but also to enhance the overall travel experience for our passengers,” CEB chief strategy officer Alex Reyes said in a statement.

It will be recalled that just last year, CEB started using electric vehicle shuttles for its employees to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable practices in the aviation industry.

Romero explained that the employee shuttle service is currently exclusively available in Metro Manila.