A trainer aircraft of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) got involved in an accident while on a standard training flight at Fernando Air Base in Lipa City, Batangas on Monday morning, April 24.

(File photo of an SF260 Marchetti trainer aircraft / Courtesy of Philippine Air Force)

Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo, PAF spokesperson, identified the aircraft as an SIAI-Marchetti SF260FH trainer/light attack turboprop aircraft which “encountered problems” at the upwind of Runway 21. Its two pilots were safe.

The identities of the pilots were not readily available as of this posting but Castillo said one is a trainer while the other one is a student pilot. They sustained bruises and scratches.

Castillo said the accident happened at 6:43 a.m. while the aircraft was taking off.

“Despite the low altitude, the pilots were able to maneuver the aircraft to an open area within the air base’s perimeter causing no harm and damage to nearby communities,” Castillo said.

Emergency responders were dispatched to the scene for the extrication of the pilots.

“Thankfully, both pilots, after going through the mandatory medical checks, have been declared safe and are undergoing treatment,” Castillo said.

Meanwhile, the cause of the accident is now under an extensive investigation as the trainer aircraft was being recovered and assessed, the PAF spokesperson noted. 

“While training flight like this has its inherent risks, the PAF assures the public of its strict adherence to maintenance and operational protocols,” Castillo said.

The SF260F Marchetti trainers are Italian aircraft manufactured by the SIAI Marchetti.