Initial assessments say crashed 'Sokol' helicopter repairable --PAF official

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 11): Initial assessments say crashed 'Sokol' helicopter repairable --PAF official

Based on initial assessments, the W-3A "Sokol" helicopter which crashed in Marawi City, Lanao del Sur Thursday is still repairable, Philippine Air Force (PAF) spokesperson Lt. Col. Enrico Canaya said in a statement on Monday.

However, the repairs of the airframe will be costly and will take a long period of time, he said.

"Initially, based on the damage to the airframe, it will be costly and will take time to recover. Costs and how long to repair is not yet determined," Canaya added.

As this developed, the PAF spokesperson said the crashed "Sokol" is still being prepared for transport to a secure location.

The PAF earlier announced the manufacturer of its crashed W-3A "Sokol" combat utility helicopter has already been informed of the accident in Marawi City.

"The manufacturer is already notified through their local representative and they shall assist the PAF in the determination of the cause of the accident," Canaya said.

The PAF acquired eight units of the "Sokol" helicopters from Polish manufacturer PZL-Swidnik and British-Italian firm AugustaWestland for PHP 2.8 billion.

One of the helicopters crashed a few minutes after taking off from Camp Ranao in Marawi City at around 2:23 p.m. Thursday.

Two people -- a civilian and a crew member -- were hurt in the crash attributed to stiff headwinds.

Canaya said the seven remaining "Sokol" helicopters will be grounded until the air crash investigation team completed its report.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=671531