Tacloban airport closed to jets April 14-30 for repairs

MANILA, Philippines – The Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport or Tacloban Airport is again on limited use starting Tuesday, April 14 until April 30 to complete the much delayed runway repair, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) said.

CAAP spokesperson told Eric Apolonio told Rappler via email that they issued a notice to airmen (NOTAM) limiting the use of the runway to 1440 meters – with landing allowed before sunset and take off beyond sunset.

The limited runway can only accommodate turbo propeller aircraft, which Philippine Airlines’ PAL Express and Cebu Pacific operate.

Single aisles aircraft like Airbus A320 or Boeing B3737 will not be allowed for the period.

The long-term repair involved the 2,138-meter runway of the airport. Given favorable weather condition and a more stable supply of paving materials, thus the repair is seen to be completed within the 16-day period, CAAP said.

CAAP added that April 14 to 30 is considered lean by airlines flying the Manila-Tacloban route thus they chose this period.

Last year, from September to December, Tacloban Airport was closed to Airbuses due to massive runway repairs. It only accommodated turbo-propeller aircraft. The repaving was delayed due to inclement weather conditions and shortage of construction materials.

The airport was closed anew on January 17 when Pope Francis visited Leyte.

That same day of the papal visit, a jet owned by San Miguel Corporation carrying government officials for Pope Francis’ visit skidded during takeoff, obstructing the runway. Airport operations normalized by January 19.

The following Cebu Pacific flights have been cancelled from April 14 to 30:

• 5J 651 / 652      Manila – Tacloban – Manila
• 5J 653 / 654      Manila – Tacloban – Manila
• 5J 659 / 660      Manila – Tacloban – Manila

Passengers of the cancelled flights may rebook their flights for travel within 30 days from original departure date or opt for full refund or travel fund. – Rappler.com