ATTN: Here’s What We Know About the Philippine Airspace Shutdown on May 17, 2023

The shutdown will disrupt 130 flights, according to MIAA.
by Ina Louise Manto | May 04, 2023

Due to the temporary shutdown of the Philippines’ airspace on New Year’s Day and the unexpected power outage in NAIA Terminal 3 on Labor Day, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) announces that on May 17, 2023, there will be scheduled major maintenance activities of the Philippine Air Traffic Management. If you’re flying out on the set day, you might want to make adjustments to your travel plans. Here’s what we know so far on the said scheduled maintenance:

What we know so far

According to Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) General Manager Cesar Chiong, the airspace shutdown will last for six hours, from 12 midnight until 6 AM on May 17. This will possibly affect 130 flights and 20,000 passengers, across the 42 airports in the country.

The six-hour shutdown will be for the repair of the Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR), upgrade of the Air Traffic Management System (ATMS) A/B power supply of the CNS/ATM (Communications, Navigations, Surveillance/Air Traffic Management or Air Traffic Management Center, and replacement of the Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS).

Initial corrective maintenance has also been conducted from 2 AM to 4 AM on May 3, 2023.

DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista also shared that there will be a full electrical audit at the NAIA terminals to avoid future power interruptions and inconvenience for travelers.

My flight is affected, what should I do?

If your flight is affected during the scheduled maintenance, get in touch with your airline to get assistance regarding rebooking or canceling flights.

Keep your eyes peeled on their social media pages as well for future announcements, assistance, and updates.

For more information, follow the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines on Facebook and visit their official website.

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