Fatal aircraft accident following engine failure near airport

33 fatalities • Manila-Ninoy Aquino, Philippines • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft experienced a right engine failure during its initial climb, leading to a stall and crash that resulted in 33 fatalities.

What happened

During the early stages of flight after departing from runway 30, the crew reported an engine malfunction to air traffic control. Specifically, the right engine had ceased functioning properly. In response to this emergency, controllers authorized the aircraft to perform a return to the airfield for an unplanned landing.

As the pilot-in-command began maneuvering the aircraft type to align with the approach path for runway 06, the plane lost sufficient airspeed and entered a stall. The subsequent impact occurred in a rice paddy field situated approximately 4.8 km from the airport, where the aircraft caught fire upon hitting the ground. The accident resulted in 33 fatalities and one serious injury. Although one passenger survived the initial crash, they later succumbed to their injuries.

Findings

Investigations into the mechanical failure determined that the right engine failed because three blades on the high pressure turbine detached. This structural failure was likely triggered by the existence of fatigue cracks within the components.

Probable cause

The detachment of three high pressure turbine blades due to suspected fatigue cracks caused the right engine to fail during takeoff.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1975-02-03 Avro 748 accident near Manila-Ninoy Aquino, Philippines?

An aircraft experienced a right engine failure during its initial climb, leading to a stall and crash that resulted in 33 fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 1975-02-03 Avro 748 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 33 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1975-02-03 involved a Avro 748, registration RP-C1028, operated by Philippine Airlines - PAL, at Manila-Ninoy Aquino, Philippines.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The detachment of three high pressure turbine blades due to suspected fatigue cracks caused the right engine to fail during takeoff.

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