By Ma. Cristina Arayata/Philippine News Agency
MANILA — The Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) on Monday assured the public that the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) remains safe against lightning.
MIAA, which manages the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), has declared red lightning alerts several times this month, and this resulted to temporary halt in ramp operations.
A red lightning alert is a safety measure to prevent any untoward incident from happening when lightning is prevalent in the immediate area and may endanger passengers, personnel, and flight operations.
On Monday, the management announced that the NAIA has 20 lightning arresters in the four terminals. These devices are to protect electrical and telecommunication facilities of buildings from the damaging effects of lightning.
“A lightning surge is captured through the arrester onto the ground which absorbs it,” MIAA explained.
NAIA’s lightning arresters are being checked every three years to ensure adherence to international standards.
In a statement, MIAA said the continued movement of ground personnel is discouraged during lightning alert because of the possibility of current to travel on the pavement before it finally discharges on the ground.
“Personal protection equipment or gears worn by ramp workers may not be enough to protect them from at least 24 megavolts of current carried by a lightning,” it added.
For three consecutive Sundays, MIAA has issued a red lightning alert that caused a number of flights to be delayed, cancelled, and diverted.
President Rodrigo Duterte conducted a surprise visit in NAIA during the wee hours of June 10 after hearing reports of flight delays and cancellations.
Authorities earlier claimed that the delay was due to the red lightning alert issued on June 9.
MIAA General Manager Ed Monreal, meanwhile, appeals for public’s understanding.
He noted that the red lightning alert is being announced to protect not just the passengers, but also the airport personnel, especially those working at the ramp.
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