PR in the Philippines

CEBU Pacific clarified that Flight 5J 559 bound for Cebu from Manila encountered a technical issue and had to hold its position during a “red lightning alert” issued over Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) at 6:57 p.m. of July 16.The clarification was made after videos showing passengers of the flight complaining of hot temperature inside the cabin went viral on social media.In the video, passengers can be heard asking the flight crew to let them leave the plane, while others can be seen fanning themselves.

Cebu Pacific Air Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines SunStar Cebu CDN Digital
Posted by Kim Buendia on Saturday, July 16, 2022

In a statement sent to SunStar Tuesday, July 19, Cebu Pacific said flight and ground operations at the NAIA were suspended during that time to prevent untoward incidents.“The flight crew requested immediate assistance to be towed back to the ramp and be given special consideration due to the warm cabin temperature. Cabin crew made necessary announcements and attended to passenger needs,” said Cebu Pacific.It added that one of the passengers was assisted by the crew to check the passenger’s blood pressure. He was brought to the Manila International Airport Authority’s clinic and was released around 9 p.m.“The passenger boarded the 3:30 a.m. Flight 5J 553 on July 17, from Manila and arrived Cebu at 5:32 a.m.,” it said.Cebu Pacific said the aircraft was towed back to the ramp around 8 p.m. of July 16.The passengers were allowed to disembark the plane around 8:40 p.m. and “were provided snacks and refreshments.”They were transferred to a different aircraft.The airline added that Flight 5J 559 proceeded to depart for Cebu at 10:22 p.m. and arrived at the Mactan-Cebu International Airport at 11:43 p.m.“We regret any inconvenience the delay may have caused. We appeal for understanding as safety is our primary concern,” Cebu Pacific said. (LMY)