Philippines Urges Pilots to Avoid Flying Near Mayon Volcano

Philippine aviation authorities have advised pilots to avoid flying close to the summit of Mayon Volcano, warning that volcanic ash poses a serious hazard to aircraft operating in the area.

Local media reported on Sunday that the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines issued the advisory as volcanic activity continues to be closely monitored. 

Ash clouds from the volcano can damage aircraft engines and compromise flight safety, prompting heightened caution for both commercial and private aviation.

Authorities have also urged residents living near the volcano to remain vigilant and prepare for possible ashfall or lava flows, particularly in the event of heavy rainfall, which could intensify volcanic hazards.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) continues to track lava movement and assess the rate of volcanic flows associated with the ongoing activity, providing regular updates to emergency and aviation officials.

Rising 2,462 meters above sea level, Mayon Volcano is one of the country’s most iconic natural landmarks and a popular destination for tourists and mountaineers. 

Despite its symmetrical beauty, it is also one of the Philippines’ most active volcanoes, having erupted more than 50 times over the past four centuries.

The most recent eruption occurred in June 2023, triggering large-scale evacuations that displaced around 20,000 residents from nearby communities.