2 fatalities

Aircraft Strikes Ground Short of Runway at Manila International Airport; Two Fatalities (B-1826)

Manila-Ninoy Aquino, PhilippinesLanding (descent or approach)

On February 27, 1980, a Boeing 707 (registration B-1826) operated by China Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Manila-Ninoy Aquino, Philippines during landing or approach. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Wrong approach configuration on part of the crew who failed to follow the approach checklist. A lack of crew coordination led the aircraft descending below the glide. 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
Aircraft registered B-1826
Aircraft registered B-1826. Photo: Roger McDonald / CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

On final approach to Manila International Airport, an airplane struck the ground about 50 meters short of the runway threshold, tearing off two engines and causing a crash landing. 82 occupants were uninjured, 51 injured, and two passengers killed.

Accident Overview

On final approach to Manila International Airport, the airplane descended too low and struck the ground approximately 50 meters short of the runway threshold. Upon impact, two engines were torn off and the aircraft became out of control. It crash landed and came to rest in flames.

Injuries and Damage

The aircraft was partially destroyed by fire. Of the occupants, 82 escaped uninjured, while 51 others were injured. Two passengers were killed.

Probable Cause

According to the official investigation, the probable cause was a wrong approach configuration on the part of the crew, who failed to follow the approach checklist. A lack of crew coordination led the aircraft to descend below the glide path.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 27 Feb 1980 Boeing 707 accident near Manila-Ninoy Aquino, Philippines?

On final approach to Manila International Airport, an airplane struck the ground about 50 meters short of the runway threshold, tearing off two engines and causing a crash landing. 82 occupants were uninjured, 51 injured, and two passengers killed.

Were there any fatalities in the 27 Feb 1980 Boeing 707 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 27 Feb 1980 involved a Boeing 707, registration B-1826, operated by China Airlines, at Manila-Ninoy Aquino, Philippines.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Wrong approach configuration on part of the crew who failed to follow the approach checklist. A lack of crew coordination led the aircraft descending below the glide.