CAAP shortens airspace closure from 6 to 2 hours

MANILA, Philippines — The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has shortened the time the Philippine airspace will be closed on May 17, from six hours to two.

The airspace closure is meant to allow for corrective maintenance of the Air Traffic Management Center (ATMC). It was previously projected to result in the closure of Philippine airspace for at least six hours and the postponement or cancellation of several international and domestic flights.

CAAP spokesman Eric Apolonio, however, said a new Notice to Airmen was issued yesterday to inform stakeholders and the public of the change in the schedule for the ATMC repair.

He said the implementation of contingency procedures would be done in coordination with adjacent Flight Information Regions to help minimize disruption to air traffic operations.

“CAAP assures the public that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure the safety and efficiency of air travel during the maintenance activity. We apologize for any inconvenience that this schedule change may cause, and we appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we work to maintain the recommended standards of air traffic management in the country,” Apolonio said.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore this week discussed with CAAP the technical issues related to the upcoming maintenance activities – including contingency plans, best practices and recommendations – to ensure seamless air traffic management.

The Singapore team’s observations and recommendations during their visit to the Philippine ATMC played a pivotal role in identifying areas for improvement that would enhance its safety and efficiency, Apolonio said.

Meanwhile, the Commission on Human Rights is supporting, “in pursuit of the principles of equal opportunity, social justice and business and human rights,” the call for a full audit of the NAIA Terminal 3 electrical systems following a power outage that left thousands stranded on May 1.

“Addressing NAIA’s reputation as one of the worst airports in the world requires joint efforts from public and private stakeholders to ensure accountability from both sides,” the Commission said. — Elizabeth Marcelo