A Saudi Arabian flight headed for Jeddah returned to Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) early Thursday morning due to a reported technical issue with the aircraft.
Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) spokesperson Eric Apolonio said the incident occurred at 12:51 a.m. on Thursday, July 3, 2025, when the agency’s Operations Center received a report from the Manila Area Control Center indicating that Flight SVA 871 was diverting back to Manila due to a malfunction with its weather radar.
The aircraft landed safely in Manila at 1:25 a.m. and is currently parked in the remote parking area at NAIA Terminal 1.
CAAP is closely coordinating with the airline and concerned aviation authorities to ensure public safety and to maintain operational readiness at all times.
The Manila International Airport Authority reported that the flight had a total of 263 passengers on board.
According to Saudia, the affected passengers were provided hotel accommodation and meals.
The flight replacement has been scheduled Thursday evening with estimated departure at 10:00 p.m. at the NAIA Terminal 1.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline: “Jeddah-bound Saudia flight returns to Manila due to technical glitch”
