Kanlaon Volcano Eruption Prompts CAAP to Issue Urgent NOTAM for Flights

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Kanlaon Volcano Eruption: What Happened?

On Tuesday, April 8, 2025, the Kanlaon Volcano eruption shook Negros Island in the Philippines, sending a massive 4,000-meter ash plume into the sky. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) reported that the explosive eruption began at 5:51 AM local time, producing pyroclastic density currents and a voluminous ash cloud drifting southwest. This event marked another chapter in the volcano’s ongoing unrest, which has kept it at Alert Level 3 since December 2024.

Located between Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental, Kanlaon Volcano is one of the Philippines’ 24 active volcanoes. Its latest eruption has raised concerns for nearby communities and aviation safety, prompting swift action from authorities.

Why the CAAP Issued a NOTAM

The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) responded to the Kanlaon Volcano eruption by issuing a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) on Tuesday morning. This critical advisory restricts flights near the volcano, setting vertical limits from the surface up to 22,000 feet. Effective from 8:20 AM on April 8 until 5:51 AM on April 9, the NOTAM aims to protect aircraft from the hazards posed by volcanic ash.

Volcanic ash is a notorious threat to aviation. It can damage engines, reduce visibility, and interfere with navigation systems. The CAAP’s decision reflects lessons learned from past incidents, such as the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption in Iceland, which grounded thousands of flights across Europe. By issuing the NOTAM, the CAAP ensures that pilots steer clear of the danger zone, prioritizing passenger safety over convenience.

Impact on Flights and Safety Measures

The Kanlaon Volcano eruption and the subsequent NOTAM have immediate implications for air travel in the Visayas region. Flight operators are advised to reroute planes, potentially causing delays or cancellations for routes near Negros Island. Airports like Bacolod-Silay and Dumaguete may experience disruptions, though the CAAP has not yet specified affected flight paths.

On the ground, PHIVOLCS continues to monitor the volcano, warning of possible further eruptions. Residents within a 6-kilometer radius of the summit remain evacuated, a precaution taken after the December 2024 eruption displaced thousands. The combination of ashfall and pyroclastic flows poses risks not only to aviation but also to local communities, making the CAAP’s NOTAM a vital part of a broader safety strategy.

For more details on volcanic ash hazards, check out this comprehensive guide from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) – a trusted resource for understanding aviation risks.

What This Means for Travelers and Locals

For travelers, the Kanlaon Volcano eruption and the CAAP’s NOTAM signal a need for flexibility. If you’re planning a trip to or from Negros Island, keep an eye on airline updates and consider alternative routes. The ash cloud’s southwest drift could affect visibility and air quality, so staying informed is key.

Locals, meanwhile, face ongoing challenges. Ashfall has already led to school closures in four villages, and agricultural losses from prior eruptions in 2024 neared P1 billion. The CAAP’s NOTAM underscores the seriousness of the situation, reminding residents to heed evacuation orders and avoid the 4-kilometer permanent danger zone.

Conclusion: Staying Safe Amid Volcanic Activity

The Kanlaon Volcano eruption on April 8, 2025, is a stark reminder of nature’s unpredictability. The CAAP’s swift issuance of a NOTAM reflects a proactive approach to aviation safety, protecting countless lives in the air and on the ground. As the situation evolves, cooperation between PHIVOLCS, the CAAP, and local authorities will be crucial to managing risks.

Whether you’re a traveler or a resident, staying updated and prepared is your best defense. The Kanlaon Volcano eruption may disrupt plans, but safety remains the top priority in this volatile region.