Sweaty passengers fanned themselves inside a plane's cabin after their flight was grounded due to a lightning alert issued over an airport in the Philippines.

The disgruntled travelers boarding Cebu Pacific Flight 5J 559 were headed for Cebu province from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Metro Manila on July 16, but were delayed due to the inclement weather.

Operations were briefly suspended after national meteorological agency PAGASA raised a red lightning alert at 6:57 pm local time.

Footage shows the passengers steaming inside the confined space and requesting flight attendants to let them leave the aircraft.

Passenger Kim Buendia said: 'It was terrible. We had trouble breathing because the air inside was so hot. Some of us were already feeling quite ill.'

In a statement, Cebu Pacific Airlines said the aircraft was towed back to the ramp at 8 pm, and the travelers were allowed to alight at 8:40 pm. They were reportedly given snacks and drinks before being transferred to a different plane.

The company said: 'The flight crew requested immediate assistance to be towed back to the ramp and be given special consideration due to the warm cabin temperature. Cabin crew made necessary announcements and attended to passenger needs.

'We regret any inconvenience the delay may have caused. We appeal for understanding as safety is our primary concern.'