What happened
During the takeoff phase from Manila International Airport, an aircraft experienced a critical mechanical failure. While performing the initial climb, the crew notified air traffic control of an emergency involving an engine fire and subsequent explosion. Although instructions were provided to return to the airport, the captain determined that the aircraft could not safely reach the runway. Consequently, the decision was made to perform a belly landing in an open field situated a few kilometers from the airfield.
The aircraft struck the ground and slid for several dozen meters before coming to a complete stop. Despite the impact, all 43 occupants successfully evacuated the wreckage. The incident resulted in only two injuries, which were classified as slight. The aircraft sustained heavy damage and was declared a total loss.
Findings
Investigations revealed that the sequence of events began during the takeoff roll when a tire burst. This failure led to an ignition event just before the aircraft reached rotation speed. After the crew retracted the landing gear, debris or molten material from the tire ignited various components within the wheel well. This fire eventually spread to the engine, causing the explosion reported by the crew.