Four Pilots Killed in Mid-Air Collision During Philippine Air Force Training
Two SF-260 aircraft crashed within Fernando Air Base on October 23, 2026, prompting the grounding of the entire fleet.
Four pilots died when two Philippine Air Force SF-260 trainer aircraft collided in mid-air during a training exercise on October 23, 2026. The crash occurred around 3:51 p.m. local time over Fernando Air Base, south of the capital Manila.
Both aircraft crashed within the confines of the air base, according to an air force spokesman. No injuries were reported on the ground. The military confirmed the crash was accidental but has not yet released further details.
As a precautionary measure, the Philippine Air Force has grounded its entire fleet of SF-260 aircraft while an investigation into the incident is ongoing.
"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 on October 23, 2026, at 3.51pm," a military spokesman stated. "Both aircraft went down within the base perimeter, with no other casualties reported."
The PAF expressed honor for the service and sacrifice of the fallen aviators and is coordinating with their families to provide necessary assistance. The military has requested privacy for the bereaved families during this difficult time.