The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) issued a notice to airmen (NOTAM) on Monday, advising them to avoid flying near Mount Bulusan in Sorsogon province due to recent ash emissions and a phreatic eruption.
Eric Apolonio, the chief information officer and spokesperson for CAAP, indicated that the NOTAM applies to flights near Bulusan Volcano, extending vertical limits from the surface up to 21,000 feet.
This advisory will be in effect from April 28, 2025, at 8:29 a.m. until April 29, 2025, at 4:36 a.m.
“Bulusan Volcano has been raised to Alert Level 1 (Low-level Unrest). Flight operators are advised to avoid flying near the volcano due to potential hazards from sudden explosive eruptions,” stated Apolonio.
Alert Level 1 signifies that the volcano is currently experiencing unrest, likely driven by hydrothermal processes. This indicates that hydrothermal activity is occurring beneath the volcano, which may lead to steam-driven or phreatic eruptions.
CAAP explained that a NOTAM is a notice communicated through telecommunication channels containing important information related to the establishment, condition, or change in any aeronautical facility, service, procedure, or hazard, which is essential for personnel involved in flight operations.