Lingayen Airport closed for Undas

Metro Manila, Philippines — Lingayen Airport in Pangasinan has been closed to the public for Undas, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) said on Friday, Nov. 1.

CAAP issued a notice to airmen (NOTAM), closing the operations of the airport from Nov. 1, 7 a.m. until Nov. 2, 4 p.m. due to safety and security concerns as the airport’s runway is situated across the Lingayen Public Cemetery.

CAAP said the 1,634-meter runway “is being used by the cemetery’s visitors as a convenient shortcut to reach the grave of their loved ones.”

Another reason for the suspension of commercial flights is the traditional practice of Lingayen locals of flying kites at cemeteries during All Saints Day due to a belief that it is a tool to communicate with their deceased loved ones and a way for souls to reach heaven.

“It will be difficult for us to control or apprehend people crossing from different directions in almost the entire stretch of the runway,” Area 1 Manager Ronald Estabillo said.

A cleanup drive along the runway will be conducted on Nov. 2 after the observance of Undas.

Three flying academies in Lingayen Airport were also covered by the NOTAM.