4 Philippine Air Force pilots die after training flight accident

Four Philippine Air Force pilots were killed after their aircraft crashed during a training flight at Fernando Air Base on Oct. 23.

In a statement, the PAF confirmed that the two SF-260 aircraft went down within the base perimeter at 3:51 p.m., resulting in the deaths of four pilots. No other casualties were reported.

The air force assured that an investigation is underway to determine the cause of the accident, adding that all SF-260 aircraft have been temporarily grounded as a precautionary safety measure.

"The PAF honors the service and sacrifice of our fallen aviators and is coordinating with their bereaved families to provide necessary assistance," they said.

In videos that have circulated online, the two aircraft were seen doing a flyby exercise before colliding mid-air and tumbling downward past power lines. Other clips show the wreckage on the ground with twisted metal and parts of the aircraft visible.

The identities of the four fallen aviators have not yet been disclosed by the PAF.

The air force appealed to the public to respect their families' privacy during this difficult time.