Aircraft Collision with Mountain Near Marawi (PI-C97)

Departure and Flight Progression The aircraft departed Malabang at 1540 local time under visual flight rules (VFR) in good weather. While overflying Lanao Lake at an altitude of 2,300 feet, conditions worsened. The captain elected to continue the flight under VFR. ## Impact and Casualties Approaching Marawi in poor visibility, the aircraft struck the slope of a mountain and disintegrated on impact. One passenger survived, while 31 other occupants were killed. ## Contributing Factors Official findings identified pilot and weather factors. The pilot continued VFR flight into unfavorable weather, with enroute and destination conditions below VFR minima, and flew at low altitude over mountainous terrain in instrument meteorological conditions. Low ceiling, limited visibility, rain, and turbulence with downdrafts or updrafts over the mountainous area at low altitude contributed to the accident.