DRONES and other flying devices are not allowed in areas where the 31st Association of Southeast Asian Nations Summit will be held in Manila and Clark, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines said on Saturday.
CAAP spokesman Eric Apolonio said a no-fly zone policy will be imposed during the meetings from Nov. 9 to 17.
He added the agency issued notice to airmen (Notam B4588/17) reminding hobbyists and operators of drones and other flying devices that the policy would be implemented “From 09-17 November 2017, 40 nautical miles radius centered on Luneta Park and Clark.”
Apolonio said the policy also prohibited the flying of unmanned aircraft vehicles (UAVs) over populated areas and restricted areas such as airports, military training camps and Malacañang Palace.
The policy states that no person may operate a UAV for hire or rewards unless in possession of a Certificate of Authorization from CAAP.
Owners or operators are required to register their equipment with the CAAP, and secure a certification to operate from the agency.
Violators will be slapped with a fine ranging from P300,000 to P500,000 depending on the gravity of offenses.
Meanwhile, aviation authorities also announced their plans in connection with the observance of All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days.
Additional measures will be in place to ensure safe, reliable, and convenient operations at all 39 commercial airports in the country in the next two weeks.
Coordination has been made with airlines regarding the efficient processing of their passengers especially at the check-in counters.
Additional airline personnel will be deployed as needed to accommodate the increase in travelers.
Check-in counters are opened two hours before departure of a domestic flight while three hours prior for an international flight. Counters close 45 minutes before departure.
Maximum deployment of service and security personnel will be observed and will keep a “no leave” policy during the entire duration of Oplan Undas.
Help desks manned by duty officers will also be set up to accommodate passenger concerns.
Travelers are also reminded not to bring prohibited items to the airport and to stow all belongings in one’s carry-on baggage for faster processing at the screening checkpoints.
“We want to make sure that traveling will be as hassle-free as possible as we observe the solemnity of the occasion,” said CAAP chief Jim Sydiongco.