Indonesian ATR 42 Plane Carrying 11 People Vanishes Over Mountains

Indonesian Plane Carrying 11 People Vanishes: Search and Rescue Underway

On January 17, 2026, an Indonesia Air Transport ATR 42-500 turboprop plane carrying 11 people vanished from radar while flying a domestic route from Yogyakarta to Makassar in South Sulawesi. The aircraft lost contact with air traffic control near the mountainous Maros District around 1:17 p.m. local time.

An artist's depiction of the ongoing search and rescue efforts in the remote mountainous regions of Indonesia following the disappearance of an ATR 42 turboprop aircraft.

Passengers and Crew

Among the 11 people onboard were eight crew members and three government officials from Indonesia’s Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, who were conducting an official mission. The flight was routine but ended abruptly when the aircraft disappeared from radar.

Search and Rescue Operations

Following the disappearance, Indonesian authorities deployed a large-scale search and rescue (SAR) operation, including:

• Air force helicopters and reconnaissance drones
• Ground teams navigating steep, mountainous terrain
• Coordination with local authorities and disaster response teams

Initial Findings

On January 18, 2026, rescuers discovered parts of the wreckage on the slopes of Mount Bulusaraung. Debris included pieces of fuselage and the tail section, suggesting a crash rather than a simple disappearance. Harsh weather and fog have made the recovery process challenging.

Authorities’ Statements

Indonesian officials confirmed that search teams are working tirelessly to locate any survivors or recover the victims. The ongoing investigation aims to determine the cause of the crash, including possible mechanical issues or adverse weather conditions.

Background

The ATR 42 is a popular regional turboprop aircraft used widely in Indonesia for domestic flights. Mountainous terrain, coupled with rapidly changing weather conditions, increases the risk during flights in remote areas.

Conclusion

The disappearance of the ATR 42 carrying 11 people has drawn national attention in Indonesia. Search and rescue operations continue, and authorities are committed to recovering the wreckage and identifying the victims as soon as possible. Families and officials await updates as the recovery mission proceeds under challenging conditions.

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References

• Yahoo News – Plane Carrying 11 People Vanished
• AP News – Indonesian Plane Vanishes in Mountainous Region
• AP News – Wreckage of Missing Plane Found
• Wikipedia – ATR 42 Aircraft (Public Domain Image Reference)

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