PAF C-130 landing gear gets stuck in mud at Catarman Airport runway edge

A Philippine Air Force C-130 plane’s landing gear got stuck in the mud at the edge of the Catarman, Samar Airport runway, the PAF's spokesperson said on Saturday.

PAF spokesperson Ma. Consuelo Castillo said the plane inadvertently got its left landing gear stuck in the mud while maneuvering for a 180-degree turn to preposition for take off at the threshold of Catarman Samar Airport.

Castillo said it had been raining which caused the softening of a part of the grassy ground where the tight turn had to be made.

“Immediate precautionary measures were done to get the landing gear safely out of the muddy area. There was no damage to the aircraft and no aircrew nor passengers were hurt,” said the Air Force spokesperson.

After a thorough inspection, Castillo said the aircraft was able to take off and safely landed in Mactan, Cebu at around 6:24 p.m.

“We appreciate the concern regarding this incident, however, the PAF assures the public of its commitment and highest regard for safety as we perform our missions in service of our country and people,” she added.

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. earlier directed the PAF and Armed Forces of the Philippines to conduct regular checkups on air assets to ensure their airworthiness. — DVM, GMA Integrated News