Drones can not only disrupt flights around airports but also endanger airplane passengers.
That was the stern warning of the New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC) and the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) as it reminded the public to avoid flying drones around the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).
The two joint operators of NAIA mentioned in particular the government rules that forbid the use of drones within a ten-kilometer distance from NAIA.
They also emphasized the safety risks drones pose, including the potential for damaging aircraft, causing emergency landings due to drone interference, and the risk of losing visual contact with airplanes.
Officials pointed out that drones can inflict greater structural damage than birds in the event of a collision with an aircraft.
Some content creators have reported flying drones within four kilometers of NAIA, leading MIAA and the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) to initiate an investigation.
The airport authority has warned that there are severe legal consequences for non-compliance with drone operation regulations, which may include substantial fines and imprisonment.
MIAA records indicate that there were ten reported instances of unlicensed drone operations in 2023 and four additional cases in the first quarter of 2024.
MIAA stated that they encourage the public to report any suspicious drone activities within the specified radius to the nearest local authorities, as public vigilance is crucial for maintaining the safety and security of NAIA airspace.
The prohibited activities include:
- Flying unauthorized aerial objects near the airport, such as kites, balloons, and lanterns (within a twelve-kilometer radius) and drones (within a ten-kilometer radius).
- Raising birds within a 12-kilometer radius from the airport (unless secured in cages).
- Allowing domesticated animals to enter, roam, or graze in airport premises.
- Constructing unauthorized structures, whether permanent or temporary, within 2 meters of the airport perimeter fence.
- Unauthorized vegetation activities, including sowing, tilling, or nurturing plant within 2 meters of the airport perimeter fence.
- Operating hazardous lighting or emissions, such as high-intensity lights or laser beams that could endanger aircraft operations.
- Interfering with communication, such as using radio devices that may disrupt air traffic control communications and navigational aids.
To ensure compliance with these regulations, the airport management works closely with local authorities and the CAAP.
#WeTakeAStand #OpinYon #OpinYonNews #MIAA #CAAP