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Engine Fire Prompts Emergency Landing in Field Near Manila Airport (RP-C1029)

Manila-Ninoy Aquino, PhilippinesTakeoff (climb)

On May 10, 1975, an Avro 748 (registration RP-C1029) operated by Philippine Airlines - PAL was involved in an aviation accident near Manila-Ninoy Aquino, Philippines during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: It was determined that a tire burst during the takeoff run and ignited shortly prior to rotation. After the pilots retracted the landing gear, the molten tire fired various equipment located in the wheel well and later to the engine that caught fire. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

Shortly after takeoff from Manila International Airport, an aircraft experienced an engine fire and explosion. The crew performed a belly landing in an open field; all 43 occupants evacuated with only two passengers sustaining minor injuries.

Incident

Shortly after takeoff from Manila International Airport, while in initial climb, the crew declared an emergency and informed air traffic control that an engine had caught fire and exploded. The crew was cleared to return to the airport, but the captain determined that the aircraft could not make it back. Instead, he decided to attempt a belly landing in an open field located a few kilometers from the airport.

The aircraft crash-landed and slid for a dozen meters before coming to rest. All 43 occupants were able to evacuate the aircraft. Only two passengers were slightly injured. The aircraft was written off.

Investigation

The official investigation determined the probable cause of the incident. It was found that a tire burst during the takeoff run and ignited shortly prior to rotation. After the pilots retracted the landing gear, the molten tire fired various equipment located in the wheel well and later reached the engine, which caught fire.

In-flight fire & smoke

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 10 May 1975 Avro 748 accident near Manila-Ninoy Aquino, Philippines?

Shortly after takeoff from Manila International Airport, an aircraft experienced an engine fire and explosion. The crew performed a belly landing in an open field; all 43 occupants evacuated with only two passengers sustaining minor injuries.

Were there any fatalities in the 10 May 1975 Avro 748 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 10 May 1975 involved an Avro 748, registration RP-C1029, operated by Philippine Airlines - PAL, at Manila-Ninoy Aquino, Philippines.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

It was determined that a tire burst during the takeoff run and ignited shortly prior to rotation. After the pilots retracted the landing gear, the molten tire fired various equipment located in the wheel well and later to the engine that caught fire.

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