Early on July 12, 2024, a Cebu Pacific Airbus A321neo was involved in a minor incident at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Manila. The aircraft, became stuck in the mud while being repositioned from Bay 111 to Bay 122A at NAIA Terminal 3.
Repositioning an aircraft involves towing it from one parking bay to another by ground crew, a procedure conducted without passengers or flight crew on board. The aircraft is prepared for its next flight only after reaching its assigned gate.
[block_2]The exact cause of the incident is still under investigation. Several factors, including wet and potentially slippery ramp surfaces due to rain, possible issues with the towing vehicle or equipment, and potential miscommunication or errors in judgment during the towing process, are being considered.
The incident has had several immediate consequences. As of 9:30 AM, the MIAA reported delays in six arrivals and seven departures. Additionally, the unavailability of Bays 110-112 has reduced parking capacity for wide-body aircraft at NAIA Terminal 3. Cebu Pacific also temporarily has one less aircraft available for flights.
[block_4]An MIAA spokesperson commented, “While the investigation is ongoing, we are taking all necessary steps to minimize the impact on airport operations and ensure the safety of all ground handling procedures.
Cebu Pacific reassured passengers that safety remains their top priority. We are cooperating fully with the authorities to investigate the incident and will implement any necessary measures to prevent such occurrences in the future,” a Cebu Pacific representative said.
