MANILA – The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), following instructions from the Acting Transportation Secretary, has suspended all operations of Woodland Airpark after an ultralight aircraft crashed in Barangay Panalicsican, Concepcion, Tarlac before noon on Saturday, resulting in two fatalities.
The CAAP Director General stated that the Acting Transportation Secretary also ordered an immediate safety and operations audit to assess the aircraft’s airworthiness and the operator’s compliance with aviation safety standards.
Initial reports indicated the aircraft, carrying one male and one female, originated from Woodland’s base in Magalang, Pampanga. It crashed into a rice field around 11 a.m.
Under Philippine civil aviation regulations, ultralight aircraft are classified as non-certificated type aircraft and are authorized for recreational use only.
The aircraft was restricted to operating within its designated Flying Club Aerodrome, with a maximum altitude of 800 feet and under visual flight rules conditions.
CAAP stated it will take appropriate action against any individual or organization found to have violated existing aviation safety laws and operational guidelines.
Woodland Airpark
Woodland Airpark is a small public-use airport located in Woodland, California, that primarily serves general aviation. It was originally established in the 1940s and has since been a hub for private pilots and flight training. The airpark maintains its historical character as a classic, community-focused airport.
Barangay Panalicsican
I am unable to provide a specific summary for Barangay Panalicsican, as there is no widely available public information or notable historical record about this particular locality. It appears to be one of the many small, local communities (barangays) in the Philippines, which are numerous and often not individually documented in general knowledge sources. For accurate information, it would be best to consult local municipal records or residents of the area.
Concepcion
Concepción is a major city in Chile, founded in 1550 near the mouth of the Biobío River. It has been repeatedly damaged by earthquakes and tsunamis throughout its history, leading to its relocation to its current site in the 18th century. Today, it is a vital economic and educational hub for the country.
Tarlac
Tarlac is a province in the Philippines located in the Central Luzon region. Historically, it played a significant role during the Philippine Revolution against Spanish rule and later served as the site for the signing of the Pact of Biak-na-Bato. Today, it is known for its diverse cultural heritage, agricultural lands, and as a melting pot of various ethnic groups.
Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines
The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) is the national regulatory body responsible for overseeing and managing the safety and security of the Philippines’ civil aviation sector. It was established in 2008, replacing the former Air Transportation Office (ATO), to modernize the country’s aviation system and address safety concerns. The CAAP manages the country’s airports and airspace, working to ensure compliance with international aviation standards.
Magalang
Magalang is a first-class municipality in the province of Pampanga, Philippines, founded in 1605. Historically, it was originally located near the foothills of Mount Arayat but was relocated to its present site in the 1860s after being destroyed by floods. The town is known for its rich agricultural lands and its role in the local sugar industry.
Pampanga
Pampanga is a province in the Philippines located in the Central Luzon region, renowned as the country’s “Culinary Capital” for its rich and flavorful cuisine. Historically, it was one of the first provinces established by the Spanish colonists in 1571 and played a significant role during the colonial era. The region is also famous for its vibrant festivals, such as the Giant Lantern Festival, and for the resilience of its people, notably demonstrated after the 1991 eruption of Mount Pinatubo.
Flying Club Aerodrome
The Flying Club Aerodrome is a historic aviation site, often associated with early civilian and recreational flying. Many such aerodromes were established in the early 20th century, serving as hubs for pilot training, aircraft development, and fostering public interest in aviation. While the specific history varies by location, these clubs were fundamental to the growth of private and sport flying.
