In a tragic turn of events, a Philippine FA-50 fighter jet crashed during an anti-insurgency mission, resulting in the deaths of its two-man crew. The Philippine Air Force confirmed the incident, which unfolded in Bukidnon province shortly after midnight on 4 March 2024.
Details of the Incident
The jet lost contact with other aircraft shortly before its crash, prompting immediate search-and-rescue operations. Wreckage, including the remains of the pilots, was located in the Kalatungan mountains within Mindanao, according to military officials. Air Force spokeswoman Colonel Consuelo Castillo described the discovery, stating, “The wreckage points to it being a crash… an investigation is under way to determine the cause of the accident.”
- Incident Date: 4 March 2024
- Location: Kalatungan mountains, Bukidnon
- Aircraft: Philippine FA-50
- Casualties: Two pilots killed
Impact on Operations
Following the crash, all remaining 11 FA-50 jets have been grounded as a precautionary measure. Castillo indicated that efforts are underway to return the grounded planes to operation as quickly as possible to mitigate disruptions in military operations.
Background on the FA-50s
The Philippines acquired 12 FA-50s from South Korea in 2014 as part of a broader military modernisation initiative aimed at enhancing internal security and bolstering capabilities to protect maritime borders, particularly against threats in the contested South China Sea.
Col Castillo expressed her condolences, emphasising the sacrifice of the pilots during their service to the nation. As recovery efforts are undertaken, the Philippine military remains committed to supporting the families affected by this tragic incident.