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Wreckage of Missing Indonesian ATR 42 Found Near Mount Bulusaraung as Search for 11 Continues

The fisheries ministry–chartered surveillance flight lost contact near Maros during approach, prompting a large multi-agency effort in difficult terrain.

Overview

  • Rescue officials said helicopter crews spotted aircraft debris on Sunday morning, including a window, large fuselage sections and the tail on Mount Bulusaraung.
  • Authorities confirmed 11 people were on board — eight crew members and three passengers from the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries.
  • Air traffic control last heard from the ATR 42-500 at about 1:17 p.m. local time roughly 12 miles northeast of Makassar after instructing the crew to correct their approach alignment.
  • The search has expanded with plans to deploy up to 1,200 personnel, but thick fog, steep slopes and dense forest are slowing ground access to the wreckage.
  • Hikers earlier reported scattered debris and small fires in the area and locals reported a loud explosion, while investigators — with support from ATR — have not determined the cause.