Two pilots of the Philippine Navy died when its trainer helicopters crashed at the vicinity of the Cavite City public market on Thursday, April 11.
Navy Commander John Percie Alcos said the R22 trainer helicopter was about to make an emergency landing when the incident occurred at around 6 a.m. on Thursday.
“The aircraft, which took off from Sangley Airport, was conducting a training flight with two officer pilots onboard,” said Alcos.
“The pilots were rushed to nearby hospitals by the responding teams from the Philippine Fleet and Naval Air Wing, but it is unfortunate that they were not able to make it,” he added.
Alcos said a thorough investigation is now being conducted to determine the cause of the crash.
While the investigation is ongoing, Alcos said all similar aircraft of the Philippine Navy are temporarily grounded.
“Philippine Navy aircrafts undergo regular inspection and maintenance to ensure airworthiness. Nevertheless, no stone will be left unturned as we endeavor to prevent this kind of accident from happening again,” said Alcos.
The chopper that crashed was the last of the two R22 trainer helicopters of the Philippine Navy.
The Philippine Navy withheld the names of the two pilots, saying it is yet to formally notify their respective families.
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the bereaved loved ones. All necessary support will be extended to them,” said Alcos.