Philippine domestic airlines have successfully returned to normal operations following a global system upgrade conducted by Airbus, which temporarily disrupted flights involving the widely used A320 and A321 air fleets worldwide.
The global technical event led to the cancellation of 82 local flights and the delay of 11 others, affecting an estimated 14,000 passengers nationwide. However, swift action by airline carriers, in coordination with the Department of Transportation (DOTr), ensured that the disruption was contained and managed effectively.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. personally issued directives to the DOTr, emphasizing the paramount importance of passenger comfort and safety while the system upgrade of Airbus planes was underway.
Following an inspection at NAIA Terminal 3 on Saturday, Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez lauded the quick and coordinated response of the airline companies.
“The directive from the President is clear: we must ensure our passengers are safe and provide them with necessities such as food and drinks while waiting for flights. That’s why we are thankful to the airlines because they helped each other for the affected passengers,” said Secretary Lopez.
Secretary Lopez confirmed that affected passengers were immediately informed and provided with comprehensive support, including the provision of food and drinks, free rebooking options, full refunds, and flight e-vouchers. The quick implementation of these passenger relief measures was critical in mitigating the impact of the inconvenience.
The DOTr assures the public that all affected systems are now stable and local air travel is proceeding as scheduled, with continued vigilance on flight safety and quality passenger service.
