Accident Details
On or about 1700H on February 1, 2025, a Robinson R44 II helicopter with registry number RP-C3424 was involved in an accident at Purok Arimung-mong, Barangay San Miguel, Guimba, Nueva Ecija, Philippines. The helicopter was operated by Metroways Health Care Medical System Inc. and was on a general aviation flight.
The helicopter departed Manila at 1022H carrying three passengers to Baguio City. After the passengers disembarked, the helicopter took off and landed at Binalonan Airport in Binalonan, Pangasinan for refueling at 1205H. Following refueling, it departed at 1635H bound for Manila.
A closed-circuit television (CCTV) security camera from a nearby establishment captured a portion of the flight, showing the helicopter descending rapidly toward the surface. Witnesses who responded immediately found the helicopter submerged in a creek with water approximately five to seven feet deep. The pilot, who was seated on the right side and still restrained by the seat belt, was retrieved from the pilot seat. One responder attempted to revive the pilot, but they showed no signs of life. The helicopter sustained substantial damage.
The final resting position of the helicopter was determined to be at grid coordinates 15°.642546 N; 120°.703026 E.
Investigation Status
The Aircraft Accident and Inquiry Board (AAIIB) of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) is still investigating the cause and circumstances surrounding the accident. The cockpit camera was recovered and is under the custody of the authority. It was sent, along with its video files, to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) of the United States for expert analysis. The findings will be integrated into the draft final report, which will then be shared with relevant parties for comment, as required by Section 6.3 of International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Annex 13.
An interim statement was issued on January 30, 2026, in accordance with paragraph 6.6 of Annex 13, as the investigation was not completed within twelve months.