The Philippine Air Force (PAF) confirmed that one of its S-70i Black Hawk helicopters made a precautionary landing in St. Bernard, Southern Leyte, on Wednesday, after the crew noticed irregular temperature readings in one of the aircraft’s engines.
The PAF helicopter was conducting Rapid Damage Assessment and Needs Analysis (RDANA) operations in the area when the issue was observed.
Following safety protocols, the pilots opted to land the aircraft to prevent further complications.
“All crew and passengers are safe and were assisted by local authorities,” the PAF said in an official statement.
The Air Force emphasized that the S-70i Black Hawk, a twin-engine helicopter, is specifically designed to operate safely even with only one functioning engine, allowing the crew to execute a controlled and secure landing.
“A PAF maintenance and investigation team is underway to assess the aircraft’s condition and provide immediate requirements,” it added.
No damage to property or injuries were reported in connection with the incident so far.
Meanwhile, Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. underscored the urgent need to upgrade the country’s search and rescue (SAR) assets following the crash of a Philippine Air Force (PAF) UH-1 “Huey” helicopter in Agusan del Sur that killed six of its personnel on November 4.
“That’s a lesson that we really need to upgrade our SAR assets as soon as possible,” he said in Filipino.
He announced that five additional Black Hawk helicopters are set to be commissioned soon, with another five expected to arrive before the end of the year.
The Sikorsky S-70i Black Hawk, a combat-proven utility helicopter that is known as the UH-60 in US Army service, is renowned for its versatility, reliability, and performance in various operational conditions.
Teodoro, who also chairs the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, disclosed that the government also plans to further enhance disaster assessment operations through the acquisition of new drones.
