7 fatalities

1990-04-26: Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (RP-C81) — Manila Aero Transport System - MATS — Manila-Ninoy Aquino, Philippines

Manila-Ninoy Aquino, PhilippinesTakeoff (climb)

On April 26, 1990, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (registration RP-C81) operated by Manila Aero Transport System - MATS was involved in an aviation accident near Manila-Ninoy Aquino, Philippines during takeoff. 7 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Failure of the left engine during initial climb for unknown reasons. The operator was not authorized to carry passengers but cargo only. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781212967Data APIEditorial standards

After takeoff from Manila Airport, an aircraft suffered left engine failure during a left turn, attempted an emergency landing in Fort Bonifacio, struck an electric pole, and burst into flames. Seven passengers were killed and 17 others injured.

Incident Overview

On the day of the accident, an aircraft departed from runway 13 at Manila-Ninoy Aquino Airport. During the initial climb, the pilot-in-command initiated a left turn when the left engine lost power and failed. The crew was cleared to return to the airport but determined that they could not reach it, prompting an emergency landing attempt in a field located in Fort Bonifacio, less than 5 km northeast of the airport.

Sequence of Events

After the engine failure, the aircraft descended toward the field. During the landing attempt, the aircraft struck an electric pole and crashed, bursting into flames. The impact and subsequent fire destroyed the aircraft.

Casualties and Damage

Seven passengers were killed, and 17 other occupants sustained injuries. The aircraft was completely destroyed.

Investigation

Official findings attributed the probable cause to the failure of the left engine during the initial climb for unknown reasons. Additionally, it was determined that the operator was not authorized to carry passengers, only cargo.