No fatalities

Aircraft lost following suspected shoot-down near Tonquil Island

Tonquil Island, PhilippinesFlight

On December 26, 1972, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) operated by Philippine Air Force - Hukbong Himpapawid NG Pilipinas was involved in an aviation accident near Tonquil Island, Philippines in flight. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft was brought down by gunfire from an unidentified source. 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 2026-06-14Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft disappeared after being struck by unidentified gunfire while in transit, resulting in a crash into the sea.

What happened

While performing an en route flight, the aircraft was struck by unidentified projectiles from an unknown source. Following this engagement, the plane descended into the ocean near Tonquil Island. At the time of the incident, the aircraft was in the cruise phase of its journey.

Following the impact with the water, there has been no confirmation regarding the status of those on board. The fate of the occupant remains unknown following the crash into the sea.

Findings

Official investigations concluded that the aircraft was shot down by unidentified fire during its flight.

Probable cause

The aircraft was brought down by gunfire from an unidentified source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 26 Dec 1972 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Tonquil Island, Philippines?

An aircraft disappeared after being struck by unidentified gunfire while in transit, resulting in a crash into the sea.

Were there any fatalities in the 26 Dec 1972 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 26 Dec 1972 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), operated by Philippine Air Force - Hukbong Himpapawid NG Pilipinas, at Tonquil Island, Philippines.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft was brought down by gunfire from an unidentified source.