Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 27)— Authorities have launched an investigation into an aircraft which entered a no-fly zone in the country’s airspace and interrupted a recently held Balikatan exercise between Philippine and American troops.
In statement on Thursday, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) said it is “closely coordinating” with the Balikatan management to get more details about the civilian aircraft.
“The reported incident is currently under investigation, and the Balikatan management together with the CAAP are working together to identify and determine details about the concerned aircraft,” CAAP said.
It added it has issued seven notices to airmen (NOTAMs) in the vicinity.
“The CAAP issues airspace restrictions and ensures that pilots and aircraft operators are briefed by its Air Traffic Service before flight plans are accepted, especially with regards to no-fly zones,” CAAP stressed.
On Wednesday, officials of the Balikatan reported an “interloper or intruder” as a plane was sighted in an area in Zambales where the joint military drills were being held.
The incident prompted officials to pause the exercise.
CAAP, for its part, assured the public that it will continue to work on the safety of all air operations, \”especially in sensitive areas such as during military exercises.”
