MIAA Ready For Potential Disruptions of Airport Ops During Rainy Season

The Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) assured its readiness to respond to disruption of airport operations in line with the onset of the rainy season.

Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) General Manager Jose Angel Honrado said the authority will implement procedures under the Airport Emergency Plan in times of weather disturbances.

There will be emergency protocols followed to ensure passenger safety considering, most especially, the looming threat of rains.

“With standard procedures in place, we can better manage potential disruptions to airport operations. The public can be assured that NAIA is ready for inclement weather,” Honrado said.

Terminal managers will convene their emergency response teams which are on standby for any untoward incident.

They will be in charge of evacuating people inside the terminals to safer holding areas; assisting in medical cases; providing crowd control measures; and ensuring facilities and equipment remain operational.

Airside operations are also made to prepare especially for strong winds and rains. Small aircraft are tied firmly to the ground or are brought to the hangar while larger ones are repositioned to face the wind’s direction.

Thunderstorm and lighting alerts are also issued in coordination with the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Administration Services Administration (PAGASA) which recommends as to whether or not airside operations should continue.

Nineteen sets of lightning protection systems are currently installed around the airport complex to mitigate the effects of electrical storms.

Meanwhile, the MIAA also reminded passengers to check flight advisories issued by airlines in case of strong rains.

Passengers may also refer to the Air Passenger Bill of Rights which details claims due them in such cases. (PNA) BNB/ANP