The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has ordered the suspension of all flight training operations of Topflite Academy of Aviation Inc. (TAAI) following an aircraft incident near Iba Airport (RPUI) in Zambales on Friday, 11 July 2025.
At approximately 0931H PhST, a Cessna 172 aircraft bearing tail number RP-C2211, operated by TAAI, was involved in an incident during a routine training flight. On board were a flight instructor and three student pilots. All four individuals were reported safe and have received prompt medical attention.
As a precautionary measure, CAAP issued a seven-day suspension on TAAI’s flight training activities to allow for a full investigation. The authority has also grounded the flight instructor and student pilots involved, pending the results of the inquiry being conducted by the Aircraft Accident Investigation and Inquiry Board (AAIIB).
In line with the ongoing investigation, CAAP has summoned TAAI’s Quality Manager, Safety Manager, flight instructor, student pilots, and other key personnel to provide detailed accounts and documentation related to the incident. The agency emphasized that these steps are necessary to ensure the integrity and independence of the investigation process.
CAAP reiterated its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of aviation safety, in alignment with directives from the President and the Department of Transportation (DOTr). The agency stressed that public safety remains its top priority and that it will continue to enforce strict compliance from all aviation stakeholders.
Meanwhile, Topflite Academy responded to the suspension with a statement characterizing the halt in flight operations as a “voluntary stand down,” describing it as a precautionary measure to support the ongoing investigation and to reaffirm its dedication to flight safety.
This latest development highlights the need for continuous oversight in aviation training and further reinforces CAAP’s mandate to uphold public confidence in Philippine air safety standards.