The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) said Sunday that it is closely monitoring flight operations following heightened tensions in the Middle East, which have caused thousands of disruptions to and from the region.
Since Saturday, CAAP reported that a total of 23 international flights have been canceled and three international flights diverted by various airlines due to safety considerations and airspace restrictions.
Affected Flights as of March 1
Canceled
- Cebu Pacific (CEB): 2
- Philippine Airlines (PAL): 8
- Qatar Airways: 2
- Gulf Air: 1
- Etihad Airways: 4
- Emirates: 6
Diverted
- PAL: 2
- Qatar Airways: 1
Canceled PAL flights include PR684 Manila-Doha and PR685 Doha-Manila on March 1, and PR685 Doha-Manila on March 2. Cebu Pacific canceled flights to and from Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE) from March 1 to 4, and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia from March 1 to 5.
“We are closely monitoring the situation in the Middle East and are in constant coordination with airlines, airport authorities and international aviation partners. The safety and security of passengers and flight operations remain our highest priority,” CAAP Director General Lt. Gen. Raul Del Rosario (ret.) said in a news release.
CAAP advised affected passengers to coordinate directly with their airlines for rebooking options, refunds, and updated flight information.
Philippine Airlines said:
“These cancellations are due to continuing operational restrictions affecting flight operations in the region. Affected passengers may avail of rebooking or refund options in accordance with PAL policies. Passengers are advised to check flight status via the PAL website, mobile app or official social media channels before proceeding to the airport.”
Cebu Pacific also urged passengers to ensure their contact details are updated to receive timely notifications and to monitor updates through its official social media accounts.
On Saturday, Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) management reminded passengers to contact their airlines directly for the latest updates, confirm bookings before travel, and ensure contact details are updated.
“Families and friends meeting arriving passengers are likewise advised to verify arrival times with the airline before heading to the airport, as schedules may change,” the New NAIA Infra Corporation said, assuring that it continues to coordinate closely with airlines and aviation authorities to ensure safe and orderly operations.