Four Philippine Air Force Pilots Killed in Midair Training Collision
Four pilots died after two Philippine Air Force SF-260 trainer aircraft collided during a flight in Batangas. Military officials have launched a probe.
POLICY WIRE — Manila, Philippines — Four pilots lost their lives on Friday when two Philippine Air Force trainer aircraft collided during a training mission south of the capital.
The incident involved two SF-260 planes operating out of Fernando Air Base in Batangas province. Military officials confirmed the fatalities on Saturday, noting that no individuals on the ground were harmed during the crash.
In response to the tragedy, the Air Force has initiated a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the midair collision. The fleet of SF-260 trainers has been grounded while authorities conduct their review.
This event marks the second fatal incident involving this aircraft model in five months. A similar crash occurred in the northern Philippines in May, which also resulted in the deaths of two pilots. Another SF-260 training flight ended in a fatal crash in 2023, claiming the lives of two additional airmen.
Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)
