A serious aviation incident shook Indonesia on January 17, 2026, when an ATR 42-500 aircraft (registration PK-THT) lost contact just before landing at Makassar’s Sultan Hasanuddin Airport. The incident has been officially confirmed by Indonesia’s aviation authorities and rescue agency Basarnas. The aircraft disappeared from radar during its final approach, triggering an immediate search and rescue operation. Later reports suggested that possible debris was spotted in the mountains of South Sulawesi, raising fears for those onboard.
ATR 42-500 Disappearance Timeline Near Makassar Airport
The ATR 42-500 took off from Yogyakarta and was heading to Makassar on a routine flight. Everything appeared normal until 04:23 UTC, when air traffic controllers noticed the aircraft drifting off its assigned landing path for Runway 21. Controllers instructed the pilots to correct their approach. After the final radio call, all communication stopped. Radar data showed the plane flying at 409 km/h at an altitude of 1,569 meters before vanishing approximately 20 km northeast of Makassar Airport.
How Many People Were Onboard the Missing ATR 42-500 Plane?
According to official sources, 11 people were onboard the aircraft:
- 8 crew members
- 3 passengers
The aircraft was commanded by Captain Andy Dahananto. Weather conditions at the time were reported as partly cloudy with 8 km visibility, indicating no severe storm during the approach.
Aviation Emergency Declared After Plane Loses Contact
A crisis center was opened at the departure terminal of Makassar Airport to assist families. AirNav Indonesia declared a full distress phase and issued a NOTAM, warning pilots to avoid the area. Police, the Indonesian Air Force, and maritime authorities joined the search using aircraft, ground teams, and surveillance assets.
Who Owned the Missing ATR 42-500 Aircraft?
The aircraft was operated by Indonesia Air Transport (IAT) under AOC 034 and was used for government sea patrol missions for the Ministry of Marine Affairs. The ATR 42-500 is widely used in Indonesia due to its ability to operate on short routes and island airports.
ATR 42-500 Aircraft Details and Safety Background
- Manufactured: 2000
- Serial Number: 611
- Seating Capacity: 40–50 passengers
- Engine Type: Twin turboprop
ATR aircraft are known for fuel efficiency and reliability on short routes. However, mountainous terrain and low-altitude flying can increase risks if navigation or visibility becomes challenging.
Official Statements on the Missing ATR 42-500
Aviation official Lukman F. Laisa confirmed that contact was lost after instructions to correct the flight path. Basarnas reiterated that 11 people remain unaccounted for. Authorities emphasized that the focus remains on search and rescue, not blame.
Past ATR Aircraft Incidents in Indonesia
Indonesia has faced previous ATR-related accidents:
- 2015: ATR crashed into mountains in Papua during bad weather, killing 54
- 2018: Lion Air ATR ditched into the sea near Jakarta
These incidents led to improved weather monitoring, pilot training, and radar coverage.
What Happens Next in the Investigation?
- Flight data recorder (black box) will be analyzed for technical details.
- Cockpit voice recorder will be reviewed to study pilot communication.
- Aircraft structure and engines will be examined for mechanical failure.
- Weather data from BMKG will be checked for sudden changes.
- Pilot records and maintenance history will be verified.
- Families will continue to receive official updates and support.
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Impact on Indonesian Aviation Safety
- Radar coverage in remote and coastal areas will be expanded.
- Mountain approach and landing procedures will be reviewed.
- Pilot training for short-haul aircraft will be strengthened.
- Aviation safety systems will continue to be upgraded nationwide.
