Tropical Storm Kristine has caused severe weather conditions at Bicol International Airport (BIA), leading to the cancellation of all commercial flights.
As of 8:30 a.m., eight flights from Cebu Pacific (CEB) and its sister airline CebGo, as well as Philippine Airlines (PAL) flights to and from Manila and Cebu, were cancelled.
“Although BIA remains operational, no airline personnel from both Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines have been able to report for duty due to impassable roads leading to the airport. Air assets for relief and rescue operations could be accommodated,” stated Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) information officer Karen Villanda.
At Naga Airport, CebGo suspended four flights to and from Manila while a mobile phone charging station has been established just outside the main gate to aid those in need of power for communication.
In Laoag International Airport, PAL canceled four flights to and from Manila, while a commercial flight at Masbate Airport was cancelled in advance.
Last Tuesday, 43 individuals, including four families and students from the Central Bicol State University of Agriculture (CEBSUA), were provided shelter in the arrival area on the ground floor of the Passenger Terminal Building (PTB).
CAAP reported that two CEB flights at Tacloban Airport were diverted back to Manila, affecting a total of 332 passengers.
Passengers who opted to stay at the airport were accommodated inside the terminal building and provided refreshments throughout the night.
“CAAP remains vigilant in ensuring the safety, security, and welfare of passengers while coordinating closely with other agencies to provide critical services and assistance during this emergency,” Villanda added.
CAAP personnel are on standby to manage airport operations and support affected communities during Tropical Storm Kristine.
