The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing aviation safety, with a particular focus on preventing bird strikes. This assurance came during a radio segment hosted by Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino, following a tragic incident involving a Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 at Muan International Airport in South Korea, which resulted in the loss of 179 lives. The crash occurred as the aircraft was attempting to land, shortly after a bird strike warning was issued by the control tower.
CAAP Spokesperson Eric Apolonio highlighted that the agency is actively addressing the risks posed by bird strikes, especially during critical phases of flight such as takeoff and landing. He noted that climate change plays a significant role in these efforts, as it influences bird behavior and migration patterns. Recently, CAAP organized a seminar to discuss the growing presence of migratory birds near airports and strategies to reduce the incidence of bird strikes.
The proximity of Ninoy Aquino International Airport to Freedom Island, a bird sanctuary in Manila Bay, was specifically mentioned by Tolentino as a concern. In addition to bird strike prevention, Apolonio updated the public on other safety enhancements, including the improvement of night operation capabilities and the expansion of runways at various regional airports. New security measures have also been introduced to manage the increased travel during the holiday season.