Dozens of soldiers killed in Philippine C-130 plane crash – Photos

Defence Redefined

Published on 05/07/2021 at 08:24

A Philippine Air Force personnel carrier crashed today and was cut in two, engulfed in flames, on an island in the south of the country, killing at least 50 people. Some of the passengers managed to jump off the plane before its crash, information released today by officials, the worst tragedy of the country’s air force in almost 30 years.

Images from the crash site depict flames and smoke rising from the wreckage of the aircraft, which have been scattered among palm trees as soldiers roam the area. 

The Lockheed C-130 transport, which was carrying troops to take part in anti-guerrilla operations, crashed with 96 people on board.

The plane had attempted to land at the airport on the island of Holo, but missed the runway. It failed to regain sufficient power and height and crashed near Patikul.

“A number of soldiers were seen jumping from the plane before it crashed on the ground, escaping the explosion caused by the crash,” the Sulu Joint Military Force said in a statement.

It is not clear how many jumped or if they survived.

The country’s Ministry of National Defence announced that 50 people were killed, including three civilians on the ground, while several others were injured, including 4 civilians. Five soldiers are still missing.

Also read: TDF guerrillas claim to have shot down an Ethiopian C-130 – “All aboard dead” – VIDEO