DOTr: NAIA Flights Return To Normal After New Year’s Tech Glitch

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) reassured the public that flights at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) resumed normal operations two days after the New Year’s technical glitch at the Air Traffic Management Center (ATMC) of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) disabling flights to and from the country.

The DOTr, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), and the airlines operating at NAIA assisted thousands of passengers on around 300 affected flights.

Moreover, Philippines Airlines (PAL) announced it is “transitioning to normal flight operations by January 4, after fully completing its recovery flights and extra sector flights.” PAL operated 30 recovery flights in total.

PAL spokesperson Cielo Vilaluna said affected passengers were accommodated on replacement flights, extra sector flights, and regular flights.

Passengers had the option to rebook, refund, or convert their unused tickets into travel vouchers for use within one year from the date of issuance.

“We have gradually calibrated our operations as we transition into normal flight operations,” Villaluna said.

“We remain optimistic that the aviation authorities of the country are addressing the CNS – ATM issue to ensure the long-term reliability and integrity of the air traffic management system,” she added.

Source: Manila Bulletin