No fatalities

Engine failure during takeoff leads to crash landing (RP-C82)

Manila-Ninoy Aquino, PhilippinesTakeoff (climb)

On May 6, 1989, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (registration RP-C82) operated by Manila Aero Transport System - MATS was involved in an aviation accident near Manila-Ninoy Aquino, Philippines during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The accident was caused by an engine failure during takeoff, compounded by the fact that the flight was carrying unauthorized passengers. 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 2026-06-11Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft experienced an engine malfunction during its takeoff roll, resulting in a crash landing and injuries to all onboard.

What happened

During the initial phase of takeoff, the aircraft suffered a mechanical failure involving one of its engines. This loss of power prevented the flight from maintaining altitude, leading to a crash landing at the departure site. The impact resulted in significant damage to the airframe, rendering the aircraft a total loss.

There were 18 people on board during the incident, and all 18 occupants sustained injuries as a result of the impact. No fatalities were reported among the passengers or crew.

Findings

Investigations into the accident identified that an engine failure occurred while the aircraft was attempting to depart. A significant contributing factor noted in reports was that the aircraft was operating without proper authorization to transport passengers.

Probable cause

The accident was caused by an engine failure during takeoff, compounded by the fact that the flight was carrying unauthorized passengers.