The Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) has issued a reminder to the public to avoid flying drones near Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), as this can disrupt flight schedules and ground operations.
This reminder comes after recent reports of unauthorized drone activities within the 10-kilometer aerodrome radius of the airport.
The airport management emphasized the potential safety risks posed by drones, including damage to aircraft, emergency landings due to drone interference, and the risk of lost visual contact with the aircraft. Authorities also noted that drones can cause more structural damage than birds when they collide with an airplane.
MIAA records showed that there were 10 recorded sightings of unlicensed drone operations in 2023 and four others in the first quarter of 2024. Airport general manager Eric Jose Ines advised all drone operators to be aware of and comply with the restrictions set by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP).