CIVIL Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) Director General Capt. Manuel Antonio Tamayo said they are now now standby alert in monitoring the Area Centers affected by the Typhoon Nika and an intensifying Typhoon Ofel today, November 13, 2024.
He said the province of Cagayan falls under signal number 1 as Typhoon Ofel starts to hit the area. Although Tuguegarao airport has reported a cancellation of non scheduled flights to coastal areas, the airport is still operational, two flights (5J 504/505) successfully landed, and secured a clear runaway due to its elevated structure despite the floods in the vicinity of the airport.
Prior to the storm’s landfall, Tamayo said Area Center Managers are advised to closely monitor PAGASA’s weather bulletins to track the typhoon’s movement. They proactively secured facilities and equipment, conducted thorough flight and ground inspections, and prepared designated evacuation areas for stranded passengers, providing them with food and essential supplies.
“I have instructed the Area Managers to maintain constant supervision of the airports, ensuring the safety and well-being of both passengers and personnel. Our airports are fully equipped and prepared to handle any emergency that may arise,” said Tamayo.
In this time of inclement weather, all aircraft with maximum certificate take-off mass (MTOM) of 5,700kg and below are prohibited from conducting ground operation and taking off and landing in an airport with Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal (TCWS) No. 1. Aircraft operators must monitor weather updates and comply with all CAAP advisories, said CAAP spokesman Eric Apolonio.
He said that additionally, aircraft operators must park affected aircraft in secure areas with protective covers against wind and rain. If a TCWS is declared nearby or at the destination, the Pilot-in-Command must land at the nearest safe airport or return to the origin.
