The Philippine Air Force (PAF) has grounded its remaining SF-260 Marchetti trainer aircraft following a tragic crash in Tuba, Benguet, which resulted in the deaths of two pilots during a training mission on May 20. The incident has disrupted the final phase of military pilot training, specifically affecting trainee pilots who were engaged in long-range navigation flights, a crucial requirement for graduation. PAF spokesperson Col. Ma. Christina Basco confirmed that the Air Force is currently relying on alternative trainer aircraft, including Cessnas, while investigations are underway to determine the cause of the crash. Investigators are exploring various factors such as human error, mechanical issues, and weather conditions. Basco emphasized that the SF-260 remains a reliable training platform, despite the incident, and the aircraft undergoes regular maintenance. The grounded fleet consists of 16 SF-260 aircraft, which were part of a larger group that departed from Fernando Air Base in Lipa City, Batangas, for a training flight to Baguio City, with only 10 completing the journey.