Mechanical failure has been ruled out as the cause of the FA-50 fighter jet crash in Mount Kalatungan, Bukidnon, that killed two pilots on March 4, 2025.
After a month, Philippine Air Force (PAF) spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo “Bon” Castillo said that the crash was caused by “confluence of factors” including the difficulty of ‘night flight’ in the mountains, and the operation of complex multi-aircraft in a combat operation.
Castillo explained that it was not caused by mechanical failure or technical failure of the army’s modern fighter aircraft.
In a news conference at Camp Capinpin in Rizal, the official refrained from speaking about whether it was caused by human error.
“Based on the data that was extracted and assessed, robust no technical or mechanical problem that caused the mishalf,” Castillo said.
“As I mentioned, the confluence of factors are attributable to the inherent risk of environmental factors,” she added..
PAF spokesperson also clarified that the FA-50's return to flight will not be prohibited from night operations.
Meanwhile, Castillo shared that the Philippines is participating in the 11-day air combat joint Exercise Cope Thunder in Pampanga with the US Pacific Air Forces.
