“Plane Enters No-Fly Zone During Balikatan Exercise: Investigation Launched by Authorities”

Authorities are investigating a civilian aircraft that breached a no-fly zone, interrupting joint military exercises between the Philippines and the United States. The incident took place during the Balikatan exercise, with officials reporting an “intruder” in an area in Zambales. The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has issued seven notices to airmen (NOTAMs) in the vicinity, stressing the importance of briefing pilots and aircraft operators before flight plans are accepted, especially in sensitive areas. The CAAP is working with Balikatan management to identify the aircraft and determine details about the incident. The incident prompted a pause in the exercise, which features over 17,000 troops from Manila and Washington. The CAAP has pledged to continue working on the safety of all air operations, especially during military exercises, to ensure public safety.