Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella and key officials of the Armed Forces emerged safe after a Philippine Air Force (PAF) Fokker 27 plane busted its tire upon landing at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport late Wednesday night.
The state-owned F27 plane was given clearance to land at runway 06-24 by the Manila control tower after flying in from Cebu City, but the aircraft’s tire exploded as it touched down on the country’s premiere gateway, forcing the aircraft to swerve at the Rapid 1 exit way.
Ten international flights were delayed while two others were diverted to Clark International Airport after the incident.
No one was reported hurt in the incident, which is now being investigated by airport authorities.
In a press briefing at the Palace Thursday, Abella assured the media that he’s well.
“It’s an interesting ride that can happen anytime. Overall, I’m good, everyone’s good,” Abella said, who admitted being surprised after his plane mishap landed in the news.
Information officers of the Manila International Airport Authority said Runway 06/24 was cleared after more than an hour following the incident.
Among the international flights affected by the incident were Xiamen Air, United Airlines, Tiger Air, Qatar Airways, Oman Air, Japan Airlines and China Southern.
MIAA officials also said Philippine Airlines flight PR307 from Hong Kong and All Nippon Air flights from Japan were diverted to Clark.
Only last month, more than a hundred of commercial flights were affected when the MIAA decided to close the main runway after damage on the pavement was discovered.
The affected flights include 53 departing planes, 76 arrivals, with eight international flights and four domestic flights canceled.
Hundreds of passengers also experienced inconvenience and were dismayed when their flights were diverted to Clark.
The MIAA decided to close the major runway to give way for the repair work of a damaged runway measuring four-inch deep pothole to ensure the safety of aircraft and passengers. The repair was completed a day after.
Fire and rescue personnel from the MIAA immediately responded to the incident and helped in the recovery of the disabled aircraft.