6 airports shut down

Airlines and aviation officials cancelled flights and shut down at least six domestic airports even before the typhoon made landfall.  In an advisory, the Manila International Airport Authority said at least 48 Cebu Pacific flights to and from the Visayas and Bicol region were cancelled Saturday in anticipation of the strong winds and heavy rains brought by typhoon Ruby.

Low-cost carrier AirAsia likewise announced on Saturday the cancellation of its 27 Sunday flights and the suspension of all its domestic and international flights on Monday and Tuesday “for safety and operational concerns due to Typhoon Ruby.” The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines decided to shut down at least six domestic airports in Tacloban in Leyte, Catarman in Northern Samar, Calbayog in Samar, Legazpi in Albay, Naga in Camarines Sur, and Masbate.  Even small private aircrafts are not allowed to take off or land in these airports, he said. GMR Megawide Cebu Airport Corp., in a statement, said there are no plans to shut down the airport.  “Passengers are being advised to check flight information with their respective airlines prior to travelling to the airport,” GMCAC said.

Passengers may call the MCIA trunk line at (032) 340-2486 for flight information. / Inquirer and Chief of Reporters Doris C. Bongcac

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