QUEZON CITY, (PIA) -- The Air Traffic Management Center Corrective Maintenance Activity that was previously announced to take place on May 17, 2023 from 12:00 AM to 6:00 AM. will be shortened in two hours after careful process reviews and simulations.
According to the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) the maintenance activity will now be conducted in a shorter period of time on May 17, from 2:00 AM to 4:00 AM.
CAAP said they also canceled the initial Notice to Airmen (NOTAM), and issued NOTAM B1553/23 in relation to the scheduled changes.
CAAP is set to implement contingency procedures through direct coordination with adjacent Flight Information Regions (FIRs), which will help to minimize disruption to air traffic operations.
CAAP assures the public that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure the safety and efficiency of air travel during the maintenance activity.
“We apologize for any inconvenience that this schedule change may cause, and we appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we work to maintain the recommended standards of air traffic management in the country,” a statement from CAAP said
In order to further enhance the country’s Air Traffic Management System and strengthen partnership with neighboring counterparts, CAAP also hosted a two-day collaboration activity with the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) last 3-4 May 2023, where both Authorities delved into technical topics related to the upcoming maintenance activities, covering contingency plans, best practices, and recommendations to ensure a seamless process in air traffic management.
The delegation from CAA Singapore was composed of experts who brought their valuable expertise, including Loo Chee Beng, Director of Aeronautical Telecommunications and Engineering; Vincent Hwa, Director of Air Traffic Services; Joe Chua, Senior Chief ATS; Christina Ong, Head of Air Traffic Management Systems Projects; Bryan Cheng, Head of Information Air Traffic Management Branch; and Ng Jingfeng, Head of Mechanical and Electrical.
The CAAS team's keen observations and recommendations during their visit to the Philippine Air Traffic Management Center (ATMC) played a pivotal role in identifying areas for improvement that would enhance its safety and efficiency. (dotr/pia-ncr)