MANILA – The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) on Wednesday assured international delegates that civil aviation in the Asia Pacific (APAC) region remains “efficient, interconnected, and safe.”
CAAP Director General Captain Manuel Antonio Tamayo made the statement during CAAP’s chairmanship of the 35th Asia/Pacific Air Navigation Planning and Implementation Regional Group (APANPIRG) meeting at the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) regional office in Bangkok, Thailand from November 25 to 27.
“Our meeting this week ensured that civil aviation in the APAC remains efficient, interconnected, and safe – with minimized boundaries and maximized collaboration, fostering a more integrated air navigation system for the benefit of all,” Tamayo said.
He highlighted the importance of APAPIRG’s role in the region’s civil aviation industry, particularly in addressing pressing issues in air navigation deficiencies, air navigation safety, and innovations such as the use of drones for flight inspections and virtualized Air Traffic Flow Management (ATFM).
He also commended member states for their dedication to addressing implementation gaps and achieving “significant regional milestones.”
The Philippines’ chairmanship of the 35th APANPIRG, he said, marked a pivotal moment in advancing partnership in the APAC region and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to fostering connectivity and aviation safety.
“I now encourage the APAC to utilize and support such an initiative, as the region strives towards the goal for zero deficiencies across all air navigation areas,” he said.
He added that the chairmanship shows the Philippines’ active role in driving progress and collaboration within the region, strengthening its position as a key player in international aviation development. (PNA)