Sunlight Air Flight Experiences Nose Gear Incident at Siquijor Airport; Passengers and Crew Unharmed

Sunlight Air Flight Experiences Nose Gear Incident at Siquijor Airport; Passengers and Crew Unharmed

By Bing Jabadan – TheNATIONWEEK.Com | January 6, 2026

MANILA, Philippines – A Sunlight Air flight experienced a nose landing gear tire deflation upon arrival at Siquijor Airport on Monday, January 5, 2026, prompting an investigation by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP). Flight RLB876, originating from Mactan-Cebu International Airport, encountered the incident during landing, triggering an immediate response from the airline and airport emergency services.

Crucially, all passengers and crew members aboard the aircraft were reported safe and unharmed.

“Your safety remains our highest priority,” Sunlight Air stated in a release issued shortly after the incident. “We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your understanding as we adhere to established aviation safety procedures.” The airline confirmed the incident involving Flight RLB876 and emphasized the immediate activation of its safety and response protocols.

Sunlight Air has pledged to provide direct email updates and comprehensive assistance to all affected passengers, underscoring a commitment to transparency and passenger well-being. The airline is collaborating closely with CAAP, airport authorities, and other relevant agencies to conduct a thorough assessment of the situation.

While the precise cause of the tire deflation is currently under investigation, aviation experts suggest several potential contributing factors. These include the presence of foreign object debris (FOD) on the runway, a manufacturing defect in the tire itself, or unforeseen stress experienced during the landing sequence.

The incident highlights the critical importance of stringent safety protocols and the effectiveness of rapid response capabilities demonstrated by both the airline and airport personnel. CAAP’s investigation will focus on identifying the root cause of the deflation to implement preventative measures and mitigate future risks.

This event serves as a stark reminder of the inherent complexities and potential hazards associated with air travel, even amidst the rigorous safety standards upheld by airlines and regulatory bodies. Sunlight Air’s commitment to open communication and proactive support for its passengers will be paramount in maintaining public confidence and trust in the wake of this incident. The findings of CAAP’s investigation are eagerly awaited to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the events leading to the tire deflation and to inform future safety enhancements.