CAAP declares Zambo City a 'no fly zone'

MANILA, Philippines - The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has declared Zamboanga City a "no fly zone" to commercial aircraft due to the ongoing crisis situation.

The CAAP on Monday issued a "Notice to Airmen” (NOTAM) after government troops clashed with alleged members of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) who occupied some coastal villages of the city.

At least six people have been killed while over 200 residents have been trapped due to ongoing crisis situation.

NOTAM is a notice filed with an aviation authority to alert aircraft pilots of potential hazards along a flight route or at a location that could affect the safety of the flight.

CAAP Director General William Hotchkiss III said commercial airline flights have been suspended effective 9:50 a.m. and will last until 9:00 p.m. Monday.

Authorities will have to assess the situation if they will lift the order.

Ten commercial flights have been already cancelled including two from the Philippine Airline Express and eight from Cebu Pacific.