The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) is conducting an investigation following a runway excursion involving an aircraft at Pamalican Airport, Palawan, earlier today.
Initial reports from the CAAP’s Operations and Rescue Coordination Center (ORCC) confirmed that a Viking DHC-6 Twin Otter aircraft, with registration number RP-C6903, skidded off runway 13 during landing at approximately 0820H PhST to 0830H PhST. The plane, operated by Island Aviation, was carrying 14 passengers at the time of the incident. Thankfully, all passengers were unharmed.
The aircraft is currently located in the middle of the runway. Emergency responders and airport staff quickly arrived at the scene to assess the situation and ensure the passengers’ safety.
In response to the incident, CAAP’s Aircraft Accident Investigation and Inquiry Board (AAIIB) has been deployed to conduct a thorough investigation. The goal of the inquiry is to determine the causes behind the excursion and identify any necessary corrective measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
The Pamalican Airport primarily serves the exclusive Amanpulo Resort on Pamalican Island, located in the Cuyo Archipelago of Palawan. It is a private airstrip catering to guests of the luxury resort, and incidents like these are rare. However, CAAP has assured the public that it is treating the investigation with the utmost seriousness.
As of 1725H PhST, the aircraft remains on the runway as the investigation continues. CAAP will provide further updates once more details become available.
While runway excursions are uncommon, they can occur due to various factors such as adverse weather conditions, mechanical issues, or pilot error. The results of the investigation will help clarify the circumstances surrounding this particular incident.