TWO members of the Philippine Navy died after their training helicopter crashed near a public market in Cavite City on Thursday morning, according to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
The aircraft reportedly took off from Sangley Point.
“A PN Robinson R22 training helicopter executed emergency procedures and crashed near the vicinity of the Cavite City public market. The two Navy aviators were rushed to the hospital for medical treatment but succumbed to their injuries,” the AFP said in a statement.
The police said the victims were a 36-year-old male pilot and a 27-year-old female pilot.
An investigation is ongoing to determine the cause of the fatal accident, which occurred around 6:30 a.m. in Draga Reclamation Area, Barangay 57, Cavite City.
In a separate statement, the Navy said “all similar aircraft are temporarily grounded while a thorough investigation rolls out to determine the cause of the crash.”
“Philippine Navy aircraft undergo regular inspection and maintenance to ensure airworthiness. Nevertheless, no stone will be left unturned as we endeavor to prevent this kind of accident from happening again,” it added.
“We are withholding the names of the two Navy pilots while we inform their families. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the bereaved loved ones. All necessary support will be extended to them.”
