‘Sokol’ crashes after being battered by strong winds

(wikipedia photo)

MANILA — The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) announced that one of the two Air Force W-3A “Sokol” combat utility helicopters crashed upon its take-off at the Army’s 103rd Brigade Headquarters based in Camp Ranao in Marawi City Thursday afternoon.

The “Sokol” chopper crashed about 2:23 p.m. due to loss of control when heavy winds struck the aircraft.

The helicopter was supposed to serve as backup helicopter for Defense Secretary Voltaire T. Gazmin and Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel “Mar” Roxas II, who were aboard the other aircraft.

The other chopper carrying the two Cabinet secretaries has safely arrived in its destination at Langundingan Airport, Cagayan de Oro City about 3:13 p.m.

As a result of the crash, one crew from the chopper and a civilian were wounded.

The AFP hopes for the fast recovery of those wounded who are now being treated with proper medical care.