The Philippine Air Force (PAF) is mourning the loss of two pilots following the crash of an FA-50PH fighter jet. The incident occurred on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, near Mount Kalatungan Complex in Bukidnon province. In response to the crash, the PAF has grounded its remaining 11 FA-50PH aircraft pending a thorough investigation, based on a report from state-owned Philippine News Agency.
The FA-50PH with tail number 002 was participating in a “tactical night” operation when it lost contact with other jets. “A full-scale search and rescue operation, initiated on March 4, 2025, involved the PAF, Philippine Army, and local civilian volunteers in the mountainous terrain of Bukidnon,” said PAF spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo. “The operation prioritized pilot recovery.”
Difficult Search and Recovery
The search and rescue efforts were hampered by challenging conditions, including dense fog and the mountainous terrain. PAF aircraft used signals from the aircraft’s emergency locator transmitter to conduct aerial searches. PAF helicopters deployed Army special forces and civilian volunteers for ground searches.
The two pilots did not survive. “With deep regret and profound sadness, the PAF announces the loss of the two pilots aboard,” Castillo said. The PAF is committed to supporting the families of the fallen pilots.
Continuing Air Force Operations
The PAF assures the public that it can continue to monitor and defend the country’s airspace. The Air Force will utilize its other aircraft, radar systems, and ground-based air defense systems while the FA-50PH fleet remains grounded.
The PAF is a “force provider” that supports various operations. Castillo stated that Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) would provide information about the specific operation the crashed aircraft was involved in.
The Air Force will conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the crash. This information will be important in deciding the future of the FA-50PH fleet.
The KAI FA-50PH is a light-fighter aircraft derived from the T-50 trainer aircraft. This was developed together with Lockheed Martin, sharing a few features with the F-16.
