Indonesian rescue teams have recovered a body during their search operation after a small aircraft crashed in a mountainous region of Sulawesi island, authorities confirmed on Sunday.
The aircraft was carrying 11 people when it went missing while approaching Makassar, the capital of South Sulawesi province.
Body Found Near Crash Site on Mount Bulusaraung
According to officials, the body of a man was found in a ravine nearly 200 meters deep on the slopes of Mount Bulusaraung, close to scattered aircraft debris.
The discovery was confirmed by Muhammad Arif Anwar, head of the Makassar Search and Rescue Office. Rescue teams also located additional wreckage, including:
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Parts of the aircraft frame
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Passenger seats
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What is believed to be the aircraft engine
The crashed aircraft was identified as a turboprop ATR 42-500 operated by Indonesia Air Transport.
Plane Disappeared During Landing Approach
The aircraft was flying from Yogyakarta on Java island to Makassar when it disappeared from radar shortly after air traffic controllers instructed the pilot to adjust the aircraft’s approach alignment.
The plane was carrying:
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Eight crew members
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Three passengers from the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries
The passengers were onboard as part of an airborne maritime surveillance mission.
Harsh Weather and Difficult Terrain Hampering Rescue Efforts
Rescue operations have been slowed by difficult weather and terrain conditions. Authorities reported:
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Heavy fog
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Strong winds
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Steep and rugged mountain slopes
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Extremely limited visibility at the summit
South Sulawesi military commander Major General Bangun Nawoko said visibility near the crash site was reduced to just a few meters.
Search teams also spotted additional bodies along a steep cliff, but rescuers have not yet been able to reach them safely.
Search Suspended Overnight, To Resume Monday
Due to darkness and safety concerns, rescue operations were suspended Sunday evening and are expected to resume Monday morning with specialized search units.
Brigadier General Andre Clift Rumbayan, who is leading the elite rescue teams, said operations will continue with helicopter support and mountain rescue specialists.
Aviation Remains Vital but Risky in Indonesia
Indonesia depends heavily on air travel to connect its more than 17,000 islands. However, the country has experienced several transportation accidents in recent years involving aircraft, buses, and ferries.
Authorities have launched a full investigation into the cause of the crash.
Final Words
The recovery of the first body marks a tragic development in the search operation. Families of those onboard continue to await further news as rescue teams battle dangerous conditions to reach the crash site.
Updates will follow as the operation continues.
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