Search Launched for Indonesian Plane With 11 Aboard After It Disappears Near Mountains
Search and rescue operations are underway in Indonesia after a regional passenger aircraft carrying 11 people lost contact with air traffic control while approaching a mountainous area between the islands of Java and Sulawesi.
The turboprop ATR 42-500, operated by Indonesia Air Transport, was flying from Yogyakarta to South Sulawesi’s capital when it disappeared from radar, according to the Transportation Ministry. The aircraft was last detected at about 1:17 p.m. local time over the Leang-Leang area of Maros, a mountainous district in South Sulawesi province.
Transportation Ministry spokesperson Endah Purnama Sari said multiple search and rescue teams have been deployed, supported by air force helicopters, drones and ground personnel.
Hopes of locating the aircraft rose after hikers on Mount Bulusaraung reported seeing scattered debris, including markings resembling the Indonesia Air Transport logo, as well as small fires in the area. The reports have been relayed to authorities and are being verified by rescue teams attempting to access the site.
South Sulawesi military commander, Maj. Gen. Bangun Nawoko, said the rugged terrain has slowed rescue efforts, particularly within the Bulusaraung National Park that links Maros and Pangkep districts.
Sari said the aircraft lost contact shortly after air traffic controllers instructed the pilot to adjust the plane’s approach alignment. “Following the last ATC instructions, radio contact was lost and an emergency distress phase was declared,” she said.
The aircraft was carrying eight crew members and three passengers, reportedly officials from the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries. Search teams are concentrating efforts around the mountainous zone where the plane is believed to have veered off course while approaching Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport.
Weather conditions at the time included cloud cover but visibility of nearly five miles, according to the Transportation Ministry.
