CAAP notifies pilots to avoid flying near Kanlaon Volcano

The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) on Saturday advised pilots and flight operators to avoid going near Kanlaon Volcano after it erupted on Friday evening.

In an advisory, the CAAP said it has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) “due to continued volcanic activity from Kanlaon Volcano.”

Kanlaon Volcano erupted briefly from 8:05 to 8:08 p.m. Friday, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) said.

This caused ashfall and pyroclastic density currents (PDCs) to flow down its slopes, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) said.

“All flight operators are strongly advised to avoid flying close to the volcano and to continuously monitor current and future NOTAMs for updates,” the CAAP said.

The NOTAM specifically imposed vertical limits from the surface up to 15,000 feet near Kanlaon Volcano, effective from 8:06 p.m. of October 24 until 8:06 p.m. of October 25.

“CAAP remains vigilant and proactive in ensuring the safety of flight operations amid ongoing volcanic activity in the country,” the agency said.

PHIVOLCS said Alert Level 2 (Increased unrest) remains in effect at Kanlaon Volcano.

"This most recent explosive eruption may be followed by further moderate intensity activity such as ash emission events or similar short-lived explosive eruptions," PHIVOLCS added. —Ted Cordero/KG, GMA Integrated News