CAAP warns of possible debris from Chinese rocket launch

The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) due to the risk of falling debris from a Chinese rocket launch. 

This notice follows a confirmation from the Philippine Space Agency on the launch of the Long March 8A rocket from the Hainan Commercial Launch Site in Wenchang, China at 3:49 PM on Wednesday. 

Tracking data showed that unburned rocket debris is projected to fall into two areas near the Philippine territory: one approximately 120 nautical miles southeast of Puerto Princesa, Palawan, and the other about 42 nautical miles from Zamboanga City, Zamboanga del Sur. 

The NOTAM will be in effect starting 4 August from 6:14 to 6:42 PM covering 40 nautical miles southeast Puerto Princesa airport from surface level to unlimited altitude. 

CAAP advised airlines and pilots to avoid designated areas during the time window provided.