No fly-bys for 81st AFP foundation anniversary

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 19): No fly-bys for 81st AFP foundation anniversary

In line with its cost-effectiveness policy, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will be celebrating its 81st founding anniversary on Wednesday without the traditional aircraft fly-by.

"Simple, less cost but meaningful and revelant commemoration is the over-riding consideration," AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said.

Traditionally, AFP founding anniversaries are opened with a high-speed opener pass.

Another consideration is that airspace clearance will be difficult to obtain as parade ceremonies will be held at the parade grounds of AFP headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

"The parade will be held (in Camp Aguinaldo) not in Clark Air Base (in Angeles City, Pampanga) where air space clearance is much easier to obtain," he added.

This means that the four newly-acquired South Korean FA-50PHs jet fighters and three remaining SIAI-Marchetti S-211s along with other brand-new Air Force planes will not be flying in formation in this year's military parade.

However, the Philippine Air Force will still be participating in the activity as its parading elements and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief units and equipment will be joining in the festivities, Padilla stressed.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=949469