THE Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) on Tuesday said that three notices to airmen (NOTAM) have been issued due to the alert levels raised on Mayon, Taal, and Kanlaon volcanoes.
In a statement, CAAP said it has updated its NOTAM to inform and alert airmen to avoid flying near the said volcanoes.
Since Taal Volcano is presently on alert level 1, CAAP said 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.
The agency also noted the increasing unrest in Mayon Volcano, which 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,” it added.
CAAP also advised airmen to avoid flying in close proximity to Kanlaon Volcano due to the possibility of sudden and hazardous steam-driven or phreatic eruptions.
Mount Kanlaon is presently on alert level 1.
CAAP stressed the significance of following updated NOTAMs to ensure security of all air travel.
CAAP operates seven airports in the Bicol Region, namely: Bulan Airport, Sorsogon Airport, Daet Airport, Masbate Airport, Naga Airport, Virac Airport, and Bicol International Airport.
