A major search and rescue operation is underway in Indonesia after a commercial aircraft lost contact with air traffic control on Saturday afternoon.
Plane Vanishes During Inter-Island Flight
The aircraft, an ATR 42-500 with registration PK-THT operated by Indonesia Air Transport, disappeared from radar shortly before 1:30pm local time on Saturday. It was conducting a flight between islands in the region when it went missing over the Maros region.
According to flight tracking service Flightradar24, the plane's last known signal was received at 04:20 UTC, approximately 20 kilometres northeast of Makassar Airport. The service noted on social media platform X that the aircraft was flying at a low altitude over the ocean, which limited their tracking coverage.
Joint Search Operation Mobilised
Indonesian authorities have launched a large-scale joint search effort involving multiple agencies. Initial reports confirm that three search teams comprising about 25 personnel have been dispatched to the last known location to scour the area.
It is understood the aircraft was carrying eleven people in total. This figure includes eight crew members and three passengers. The plane is reported to belong to the Indonesian Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, indicating it may have been on a government-related mission.
Ongoing Efforts and Regional Context
The search is focused on the waters and terrain near Makassar, the capital of South Sulawesi province. This incident highlights the challenges of aviation in Indonesia's vast archipelago, where inter-island flights are common and weather conditions can change rapidly.
Authorities have not yet released information on possible causes for the loss of contact. The priority remains locating the aircraft and any survivors. The international aviation community, including Australian authorities who monitor regional air safety closely, will be watching the developments with concern.
This is a developing story, and further updates are expected as the search operation continues through the day.
