1 fatality

Aircraft Crash Offshore Calapan During Night Descent (RP-C643)

Calapan, PhilippinesLanding (descent or approach)

On October 19, 1974, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (registration RP-C643) operated by Mabuhay Airways was involved in an aviation accident near Calapan, Philippines during landing or approach. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: It is believed that the airplane stalled on descent due to an insufficient speed. 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 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft crashed into the sea near Calapan after a left engine failure en route from Roxas City. The plane stalled at 900 feet during night descent, killing one pilot while seven occupants were rescued.

Incident Overview

During a flight from Roxas City to Calapan, an aircraft experienced a mechanical issue while cruising at 8,500 feet. The left engine suffered severe vibrations, prompting the crew to shut it down. Following this event, the aircraft began its descent toward Calapan under night conditions.

Crash Sequence

As the airplane approached the destination, it descended to an altitude of approximately 900 feet. At this stage, the aircraft stalled and subsequently crashed into the sea roughly 200 meters offshore. Emergency response teams conducted rescue operations at the scene.

Casualties and Outcome

The incident resulted in one fatality among the flight crew; specifically, one pilot was killed. The remaining seven occupants were successfully rescued from the water.

Probable cause

It is believed that the airplane stalled on descent due to an insufficient speed.