4 fatalities

Mid-air explosion and crash during flight from Manila to Marinduque

Philippines, PhilippinesFlight

On December 22, 1971, a Rockwell Aero Commander 560 operated by PacificAir - Pacific Airways was involved in an aviation accident near Philippines, Philippines in flight. 4 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The cause of the in-flight explosion is currently unknown. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 5 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

A twin-engine aircraft experienced an in-flight explosion and subsequent crash while traveling from Manila to Marinduque, resulting in no survivors.

What happened

During a scheduled flight departing from Manila with the destination of Marinduque, a twin-engine aircraft underwent a catastrophic event in mid-air. The aircraft reportedly experienced an explosion while still in flight, which led to a loss of control and a subsequent crash.

There were four fatalities recorded as a result of the accident, with no survivors among the occupants on board. The incident occurred during the transit phase of the flight between the two Philippine locations.

Findings

At this stage of the investigation, the specific reason for the mid-air explosion has not been determined. Authorities have not yet identified the precise mechanism or factor that triggered the destruction of the aircraft.

Probable cause

The cause of the in-flight explosion is currently unknown.