The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has reinforced its commitment to aviation safety by issuing Memorandum Circular 026-2025, further establishing the strict prohibition of hazardous activities within airport vicinities and operational areas. This circular serves as a crucial follow-up to a previously released reminder, underscoring the critical need for public cooperation in maintaining safe skies.
CAAP explicitly prohibits the following activities by any individual, organization, or entity due to the significant risks they pose to aircraft operations:
- Flying of unauthorized aerial objects: This includes kites, balloons, and lanterns within a 12-kilometer radius of the airport, and drones within a 10-kilometer radius.
- Raising of birds: The raising of birds within a 12-kilometer radius from the airport is prohibited unless they are housed in secured cages that prevent them from flying freely.
- Animal intrusions: The entering, roaming, or grazing of domesticated animals within airport premises is strictly forbidden.
- Unauthorized structures: Construction of any permanent or temporary structure within 2 meters of the airport perimeter fence is prohibited.
- Unauthorized vegetation: The sowing, tilling, or nurturing of vegetation within 2 meters of the airport perimeter fence is not allowed.
- Hazardous lighting and emissions: The operation of high-intensity lights or laser beams that could endanger aircraft operations is strictly banned.
- Interference with communications: Operating radio communication devices or any medium that may interfere with air traffic control communications and navigational aids is prohibited.
These regulations are in place to mitigate potential hazards that could compromise the safety of aircraft, passengers, and crew. CAAP emphasizes that these prohibited activities can lead to serious accidents and disruptions in air traffic.
CAAP is actively collaborating with relevant authorities to monitor and address any instances of these prohibited activities. The agency urges the public to be vigilant and to refrain from engaging in these dangerous practices. Public cooperation is paramount in ensuring the continued safety and efficiency of air travel.
