The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) is committed to ensuring the safety of air travel in the country. The CAAP has updated its Notices to Airmen (NOTAM) to inform and alert flying aircraft of the current alert levels and associated risks in light of the ongoing unrest at the Taal, Mayon, and Kanlaon volcanoes.
Kanlaon Volcano – Alert Level 1 (Abnormal Condition)
NOTAM B1957/23 has been issued to address the current alert level of Kanlaon Volcano in Negros Island. The volcano is currently on alert level 1, indicating an abnormal condition. Flight operators are strongly advised to avoid flying in close proximity to the volcano’s summit due to the possibility of sudden and hazardous steam-driven or phreatic eruptions. Such eruptions may pose a significant hazard to aircraft from the surface up to 10,000 feet. Additionally, entry within the 4km radius of the permanent danger zone of Kanlaon Volcano has been prohibited.
Taal Volcano – Alert Level 1 (Low-level Unrest)
NOTAM B1958/23 has been issued to highlight the alert level status of Taal Volcano in Batangas. The volcano is presently on alert level 1, indicating low-level unrest. Flight operators are advised to steer clear of the volcano’s summit as airborne ash and ballistic fragments resulting from sudden explosions can pose significant hazards to aircraft from the surface up to 10,000 feet. In relation to this, entry to the island where Taal Volcano is situated has been prohibited.
Mayon Volcano – Alert Level 2 (Increasing Unrest)
NOTAM B1959/23 has been issued to address the increasing unrest at Mayon Volcano in Albay, Bicol Region. The volcano is currently on alert level 2. Flight operators are strongly advised to avoid flying near the summit of Mayon Volcano as any sudden eruption can emit ash that may be hazardous to aircraft from the surface up to 10,000 feet. Additionally, entry within the 6km radius of the permanent danger zone of Mayon Volcano has been prohibited.
CAAP spokesman Eric Apolonio said the agency operates seven airports in the Bicol Region, namely: Bulan Airport, Sorsogon Airport, Daet Airport, Masbate Airport, Naga Airport, Virac Airport, and Bicol International Airport.
CAAP stresses the significance of following these updated NOTAMs in order to guarantee the security of all air travel. The authority continues to closely monitor the volcanic activities and will provide further updates as necessary, Apolonio said.
