Overview: CAAP-Managed Airports Stay Open After Strong Quake
In the wake of a powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake that struck Davao Oriental on Friday, all airports under the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) are functioning normally. The aviation regulator conducted rapid assessments to ensure that airport facilities remained safe and operational for travelers across the country.
The Immediate Impact on Aviation
CAAP confirmed that there was no major damage to airport facilities nationwide. While the initial checks found no structural failures hindering operations, inspectors did note minor cracks in the logistics building at Dipolog City Airport. CAAP has initiated a thorough inspection to verify structural integrity and guarantee passenger safety before 결정ively confirming any long-term implications for operations.
Flight Diversions and Real-Time Adjustments
Following the tremor, two commercial flights bound for Davao were diverted to alternative airports to prioritize safety and maintain service reliability. Specific diversions included:
- PAL Express flight 2P2813 (Manila–Davao) diverted to Mactan-C Cebu International Airport
- Cebu Pacific flight 5J963 (Manila–Davao) diverted to General Santos International Airport
The regulator emphasized that such diversions are precautionary measures designed to protect passengers while the situation is reassessed at affected routes and facilities.
Safety Protocols and Continuous Monitoring
CAAP stated it would continue to monitor airport operations closely for any signs of impact from the earthquake. The agency’s immediate priority is passenger safety, ensuring runways, terminals, and support facilities remain secure and capable of handling the daily travel volume. Travelers are advised to stay updated through official CAAP advisories and airport announcements for possible gate changes or additional diversions as assessments proceed.
Dipolog City: Local Assessment Underway
The discovery of minor cracks in the Dipolog City logistics building prompted a focused evaluation by CAAP engineers. While the issue is being investigated, there is no indication of immediate disruption to flights or passenger movement in Dipolog. The situation underscores CAAP’s commitment to transparency and proactive safety checks following seismic events.
What This Means for Travelers
For travelers with upcoming flights, the message from CAAP is clear: airport operations remain largely unaffected, but diversions and minor delays can occur if inspections reveal issues in specific facilities. Always check your airline’s status updates and monitor CAAP’s official notifications as the verification process continues. If you’re currently at an airport, follow directions from staff and keep your travel documents handy for any rebooking needs.
Looking Ahead
As the Philippines continues to assess the earthquake’s impact, CAAP reaffirmed its readiness to adapt operations to ensure safety while sustaining critical air connectivity. The agency’s timely response helps reassure the traveling public that air travel remains a dependable option even after seismic events in Mindanao and surrounding regions.
