Wednesday, August 18, 2010

Update on Helicopter Crash as of 181600H August 2010

By: LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office

Wednesday, 18 August 2010

After nearly 16 hours since it crashed at 11 a.m. 17 August 2010, the Bolkov Helicopter PNH411 has been raised from the 80 ft-deep sea water near Sta. Cruz Island off Zamboanga City at around 3 p.m. 18 August 2010.

Outgoing Naval Forces Western Mindanao Chief RADM ALEXANDER PAMA AFP reports to Navy Chief RADM DANILO M CORTEZ AFP that the aircraft was intact amidst shattered windshields, dented rotor blades, and tail boom severed from the body due to impact. Data from flight instrument are likewise visible to aid investigators in the determination of the cause of the crash.

The two pilots are yet to be located although search operations continue without let-up since the fateful incident.

Philippine Navy still hopes to find the aviators alive owing to the indications that they were able to bolt out of the cockpit and their military pilot training for stability and immediate action during similar emergencies. (End)