What happened
On March 30, 2020, an IAI Westwind II (registration RP-C5880) operated by Lionair Inc. was involved in a fatal accident during takeoff from Runway 06 at Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila, Philippines. The aircraft was performing a medical evacuation mission destined for Haneda, Japan, under Instrument Flight Rules.
During the takeoff roll, before reaching taxiway R2, sparks were observed on the runway surface. The aircraft continued its roll until it came to a stop and subsequently caught fire. Physical evidence at the scene included rubber fragments, metal debris, and scrape marks originating from the right-hand wheel hub. Further tracking showed tire and scrape marks near the intersection of taxiway H1, where a large portion of the left-hand tire was found in the grass.
After leaving the paved runway safety area, the aircraft struck two runway edge lights and collided with a concrete electrical junction box before coming to rest against the secondary runway fence. The wreckage settled approximately 172 meters beyond the end of the runway at coordinates 14°30'53.50"N; 121°1'48.48"E. There were eight fatalities among the occupants.
Findings
The investigation determined that the accident was triggered by the pilot flying's decision to abort the takeoff after reaching rotation speed (Vr), which led to the runway excursion. This action was compounded by improper pilot techniques during a high-speed rejected takeoff.
Several contributing factors were identified, including operational pressure caused by flight plan delays that pressured the crew to meet their schedule. Additionally, the crew exhibited complacency by omitting critical items from the pre-takeoff checklist, specifically failing to discuss procedures for malfunctions occurring before or after V1.