The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has issued NOTAM B0417/25, effective 0800H on 03 February 2025, mandating that all helicopters departing within the Manila Air Traffic Zone (ATZ) must contact the Manila Control Tower for route clearance to their destination before becoming airborne. This directive aligns with the Aeronautical Information Publication (AIP) RPLL AD 2-48, Section 3.1.1.4, which details operational requirements for helicopter movements in Manila.
AIP RPLL AD 2-48: Helicopter Operations in Manila
The relevant section of the AIP highlights that:
- Helicopters must obtain clearance from the Manila Control Tower before departure.
- Specific airways and flight paths are designated to ensure safe separation from fixed-wing aircraft.
- Adherence to prescribed routes enhances situational awareness and minimizes airspace congestion.
This requirement aims to enhance air traffic management (ATM) and flight safety, particularly in the congested airspace surrounding Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA | MNL | RPLL).
Lessons from the Washington, D.C. Helicopter Mishap
The timing of this NOTAM issuance follows a recent helicopter mishap in Washington, D.C., which raised concerns over air traffic coordination and pilot communication. Initial reports suggest that insufficient coordination with air traffic control (ATC) may have contributed to the incident. While details are still under investigation, this incident underscores the critical importance of obtaining proper ATC clearance before departure, especially in controlled airspace.
Impact on Manila Helicopter Operations
For operators within Manila’s ATZ, this new rule means strict compliance with route clearance procedures to avoid potential airspace conflicts. Pilots and operators are advised to factor in additional time for clearance requests and ensure that all radio communications with the Manila Control Tower are clear and acknowledged.
By enforcing this procedure, CAAP aims to prevent unauthorized or unsafe departures, ensuring a more structured and safer operating environment for all airspace users — especially with the election campaign season approaching, when numerous candidates rent helicopters for their sorties. This measure helps manage increased aerial traffic, reducing risks associated with uncoordinated flights in Manila’s congested airspace.