Middle East tensions force flight cancellations at NAIA

Ongoing airspace restrictions in parts of the Middle East have prompted multiple flight cancellations by Philippine Airlines (PAL) and Cebu Pacific (CEB), affecting passengers traveling to the region from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

In an advisory, Cebu Pacific announced that Flight 5J 14 to Dubai on February 28 was ordered to return to Manila, with an estimated arrival at 10:45 p.m. Its return service, Its return flight, Flight 5J 15, was canceled.

Flights 5J 14/15 Manila-Dubai-Manila scheduled for March 1 were also canceled.

Affected passengers were notified via email and can rebook, convert the canceled flight to a travel fund, or request a refund. Changes may be made up to two hours before departure.

Meanwhile, Philippine Airlines (PAL) said it has canceled the following flights scheduled for Sunday, March 1, 2026:

• PR658 / PR659 – Manila – Dubai – Manila
• PR654 / PR655 – Manila – Riyadh – Manila

“These cancellations are due to continuing restrictions on flight operations in the concerned Middle East stations,” PAL said.

The airline is coordinating with aviation authorities, airport operators, and relevant government agencies regarding further developments. Affected passengers may avail of rebooking, rerouting, or refund options in accordance with PAL policies.

Passengers of both airlines are advised to check their flight status through airline websites, mobile apps, or official social media channels before proceeding to the airport.

The New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC), operator of NAIA, reminded travelers that “flights may be delayed, rerouted, or canceled at short notice, depending on airline operations,” and encouraged families and friends meeting arriving passengers to “verify arrival times with the airline before heading to the airport, as schedules may change.”

NNIC said it continues to coordinate with airlines and aviation authorities to ensure safe and orderly airport operations, noting that “further updates will be provided as needed.”—MCG, GMA Integrated News