5 fatalities

Training Flight Crash at Manila International Airport Kills Five (PK-RHS)

Manila-Ninoy Aquino, PhilippinesTakeoff (climb)

On October 18, 1977, an Avro 748 (registration PK-RHS) operated by Mandala Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Manila-Ninoy Aquino, Philippines during takeoff. 5 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The crew overestimated aircraft performances and showed overconfidence. At the time of the accident, the aircraft's speed was too low, causing it to stall. 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)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

A training flight crashed into houses near Manila-Intl Airport during a go-around with one engine out, killing both pilots and three on the ground, and seriously injuring three others. The aircraft stalled due to low speed.

Accident Details

The accident occurred during a local training flight at Manila-Intl Airport. The aircraft was completing a go-around maneuver with one engine inoperative when the pilot-in-command lost control. The airplane stalled and subsequently crashed into several houses near the airport.

Occupants and Injuries

On board were two passengers and a crew of three, totaling five occupants. Both pilots and three individuals on the ground were killed. Three other occupants sustained serious injuries. The aircraft was destroyed.

Probable Cause

According to the official investigation, the probable cause was that the crew overestimated the aircraft's performances and showed overconfidence. At the time of the accident, the aircraft's speed was too low, causing it to stall.

Investigation Findings

The investigation did not specify the aircraft type, registration, or engine count. The exact time of day, weather conditions, and ATC involvement were not detailed in the findings. The focus remained on the crew's actions during the go-around with one engine out.