The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) reminded all operators and hobbyists of unmanned aircraft vehicle (UAV), also known as ‘drones,’ to observe its ‘no fly zone’ policy, which will be strictly implemented during the annual ‘Traslacion’ in Manila on January 9, 2025.
All areas where the image of the revered Black Nazarene will pass through during the traditional procession are covered by the said advisory.
CAAP also announced that it will no longer issue a Notice to Airmen (Nortam) regarding the no-fly and no-drone zones around Quirino Grandstand and Quiapo Church during this year’s Traslacion.
“These areas are part of RP-P1, a restricted airspace where both lateral and vertical flying are prohibited within a two-nautical-mile radius and up to 5,500 feet above Malacañan Palace,” the agency stated in its advisory.
CAAP has stated that, since unauthorized flights—including drones—are already banned in this permanently restricted zone, there is no need for an additional Notam specifically for the Traslacion event.
In Philippine aviation, RP-P1 refers to Restricted Area Philippines-1, which is an established airspace restriction zone designed for safety and security purposes.
The “RP” stands for the Republic of the Philippines, which is the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) country code for the Philippines, while “P1” designates this specific restricted area surrounding Malacañang Palace and adjacent government sites.
CAAP emphasizes its commitment to maintaining secure and controlled airspace, especially during significant public events like the ‘Traslacion.’
