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The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) on Mon, May 18, ordered the suspension of the air operator certificate (AOC) of low-cost carrier SEAIR International and Magnum Air (Skyjet) Inc. for various “safety observations” in reference to the report by the European Union Assessment Team.
The EU team made the report after their visit last April 16 to 24.
In letters addressed to SEAIR president and CEO Avelino Zapanta and Magnum Air’s Capt. Teodoro Fojas, CAAP informed the two airline officials of the suspension order of its AOCs due to various safety shortcomings on the rules and standards prescribed under the Philippine Civil Aviation Regulations (PCAR).
The letter was signed May 15 by CAAP director general William K Hotchkiss lll who said the results of said assessment visit and investigation made by him and his office require that the issue be properly given immediate corrective actions.
CAAP said the suspension order took effect Monday (May 18) upon receipt by the two airlines’ respective offices.
The suspension will remain in effect until the CAAP is assured that the necessary corrective actions and compliance with aviation safety standards have been undertaken by the respective airlines.
Under the Passengers’ Bill of Rights, the suspended airlines should answer for the affected passengers.
Seair mounts flights from Manila to Basco, Batanes; Caticlan (Boracay); and Tablas Island, Romblon.
Magnum Air (Skyjet) mounts flights from Manila to Basco, Batanes; and to Busuanga, Palawan.
This article has been re-published with permission from ABS-CBNnews.com.
