Multiple flights in and out of Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) were delayed and canceled yesterday due to a technical problem with the software of the Air Traffic Management Center (ATMC), according to the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP).
CAAP has implemented a longer separation of departing flights at NAIA around midday, after it identified a potential problem with the ATMC software to ensure the safety of the flying public.
As of 2:21 p.m., CAAP resumed normal operations of the ATMC, after almost three hours of limited operation, with only departing flights experiencing longer flight intervals.
The CAAP said communication and surveillance at the ATMC remained available and unaffected.
Flights of Philippine Airlines (PAL), Cebu Pacific (CEB) and AirAsia Philippines were among those cancelled or delayed.
Cielo Villaluna, PAL spokesperson, said a total of 32 flights were delayed.
Of the 12 international departures, 20 domestic departures and 6 domestic arrivals were delayed, PAL said, adding it continues to work with the government to normalize its operations.
“With the restoration of Manila radar operations, we are working towards normalizing our flight operations. We are closely coordinating with the aviation authorities on the adjustment of flight schedules and clearances,” PAL said.
Aside from several delayed flights, CEB has canceled 10 domestic flights originating from Manila to Iloilo, Bacolod, Cebu, Davao and Cagayan de Oro.
CEB said it is working to restore its operations after the main flight data processor of the ATMC system experienced a technical issue.
“Only limited flight operations were permitted between midday and 2:21 p.m. The ATMC resumed operations at 2:21pm but it will take some time for operations to normalize.
Please expect delays, cancellations, and disruptions for the remainder of the day,” CEB said.
Affected passengers have been informed via email and provided with the option to rebook, store the ticket cost in a virtual CEB wallet and refund, the airline added.
Steve Dailisan, AirAsia Philippines head of communications and public affairs, advised passengers about multiple flight delays as flights originating from different local and domestic destinations of AirAsia experienced disruptions.
“AirAsia expects the situation to normalize very soon. We appreciate the patience and understanding of our guests as the delays are beyond our control,” Dailisan said.
