Four Philippine Air Force (PAF) pilots were killed after two SF-260 aircraft collided mid-air and crashed during a training flight at Fernando Air Base in Lipa City, Batangas, on Friday, Oct. 23, the PAF confirmed on Saturday.
“The Philippine Air Force (PAF) mourns the loss of four pilots in an aviation accident involving two SF-260 aircraft during a training flight at Fernando Air Base,” the PAF said in a statement.
The two aircraft went down within the air base’s perimeter at around 3:51 p.m., according to the PAF.
The aircraft, bearing tail numbers 032 and 037, were conducting a training flight when the collision occurred. The four aircrew members aboard included two first lieutenants, a captain and a major.
Other aircraft participating in the training activity landed safely, and no other casualties were reported.
The PAF has temporarily grounded all SF-260 aircraft as a precautionary safety measure while an investigation is underway to determine the cause of the accident.
“The PAF honors the service and sacrifice of our fallen aviators and is coordinating with their bereaved families to provide necessary assistance,“ it said.
“At the families' request, we respectfully appeal to the public to respect their privacy during this difficult time,“ the PAF added.
The Air Force also expressed condolences to the families of the deceased pilots and assured them that appropriate assistance would be provided.
