Four Philippine Air Force pilots have lost their lives following a mid-air collision involving two military training aircraft at Fernando Air Base in the Philippines. The pilots involved were from the 102nd Pilot Training Squadron "Cougars".
The accident occurred at approximately 3:51 pm local time on Friday, the 23rd of October 2026, in Lipa City, Batangas province, south of the capital, Manila. The aircraft involved were two Italian-designed SIAI-Marchetti SF-260 trainers operating during a training flight. Both aircraft crashed within the boundaries of Fernando Air Base (RPUL), killing all four pilots aboard.
The Philippine Air Force confirmed the fatalities on Saturday, expressing its condolences to the families, friends and fellow aircrew of the deceased.
No additional casualties on the ground were reported.
The tragedy has once again highlighted the inherent risks associated with military flying, where pilots must operate in close proximity to other aircraft while maintaining precise control, situational awareness and coordination. For the families of the four pilots, however, the loss is far more personal. Four people who went to work performing their duties as military aviators will not be returning home.
Local media reported that the flight involved seven aircraft operating in a coordinated formation. Following the accident, the remaining five aircraft reportedly landed safely. The two aircraft involved have been identified in Philippine media reports as SF-260s carrying the tail numbers 032 and 037.
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