Philippine Air Force FA-50 Fighter Jet Crash – Wreckage and Pilots Found

Philippine Air Force FA-50 Fighter Jet Crash: Wreckage and Pilots Found in Bukidnon Mountains

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) has confirmed that the wreckage of its missing FA-50 fighter jet has been found in the Kalatungan mountain range in Bukidnon province. Tragically, both pilots were discovered deceased near the crash site. The aircraft went missing during a tactical night operation on March 4, 2025, and was supporting ground forces engaged in combat against communist insurgents when it lost communication.

Discovery of the Wreckage and Pilots

On March 5, 2025, search and rescue teams located the FA-50 fighter jet's wreckage on Mount Kalatungan. The aircraft was described as a "total wreck," and it is currently unclear if the pilots attempted to eject before impact. The Philippine Air Force is conducting a full investigation to determine the cause of the crash.

Circumstances Leading to the Crash

The FA-50 fighter jet lost communication with another aircraft during a nighttime combat mission against New People's Army (NPA) guerrillas near Cabanglasan town, Bukidnon. While the other planes returned safely to Mactan Air Base in Cebu, the missing jet never arrived at its destination. Efforts to re-establish contact were unsuccessful.

Philippine Air Force Response and Grounding of FA-50 Fleet

Following the crash, the Philippine Air Force has grounded all remaining FA-50 fighter jets as a precaution. The PAF originally acquired 12 FA-50 jets from Korea Aerospace Industries Ltd. in a ₱18.9 billion defense contract under the administration of former President Benigno "Noynoy" Aquino III.

Initial Report: FA-50 Fighter Jet Goes Missing During Tactical Night Mission

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) initially reported that an FA-50 fighter jet with two pilots on board went missing on March 4, 2025, while conducting a tactical night operation. Communication was lost minutes before the aircraft was scheduled to arrive at Mactan Air Base in Cebu.

Key Details of the FA-50 Incident

✅ Aircraft Model: FA-50 Fighter Jet
✅ Pilots on Board: Two
✅ Mission Type: Tactical Night Operation
✅ Last Contact: Minutes before reaching Mactan Air Base, Cebu
✅ Current Status: Wreckage and pilots found in Bukidnon mountains

Search and Rescue Operations

Once communication was lost, the Philippine Air Force launched a search and rescue mission, deploying aerial and ground units to locate the missing aircraft. The wreckage was eventually found in the Kalatungan mountain range the next day.

Ongoing Investigation and Next Steps

Authorities are conducting a detailed investigation to determine the cause of the crash and assess potential safety concerns within the FA-50 fleet. This incident raises questions about aircraft safety, pilot training, and tactical mission risks in the Philippine Air Force.

📢 Stay updated for further details on the official findings and future steps taken by the PAF.


Video Credit: GMA Integrated News