In a shocking development revealed by Indonesian aviation and rescue officials, an ATR 42-500 aircraft carrying 11 people on board went missing during a domestic flight from Yogyakarta to Makassar in South Sulawesi, Indonesia, on Saturday, January 17, 2026. Authorities later announced that the aircraft’s wreckage had been located in a rugged mountainous area, while search and rescue operations continue to determine the fate of the passengers and crew.

Indonesia’s National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) stated that the last contact with the aircraft was recorded at approximately 13:17 local time, as it was approaching Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport, before it suddenly disappeared from radar screens over the Liang-Liang area in Maros Regency, known for its challenging mountainous terrain.

Passenger, Aircraft, and Flight Details

The aircraft, operated by Indonesia Air Transport, was flying on behalf of the Indonesian Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries as part of a specialized aerial surveillance mission. On board were eight crew members and three ministry employees when contact was lost while the aircraft was flying over the limestone hills of South Sulawesi.

Official sources indicated that the aircraft was en route to carry out a maritime aerial monitoring mission before it suddenly vanished, prompting authorities to declare a state of emergency and launch extensive search operations involving military units, police forces, and emergency response teams, supported by helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles (drones).

Rescue Teams Locate Wreckage and One Body

In the latest update, Indonesian authorities confirmed that aircraft debris was found scattered across Mount Bulusaraung, a rugged mountain whose steep terrain and dense fog covering its summit have significantly hindered rescue teams’ movement and complicated access to the site.

Officials stated that search teams have so far recovered the body of one individual near the wreckage, while the remaining ten people are still missing, amid intensive efforts to reach them. The identities of those involved have not yet been officially disclosed, as search operations continue on all fronts.

Challenges Facing Search and Rescue Teams

Rescue teams reported that thick fog, strong winds, and rugged terrain pose serious challenges to ongoing efforts to reach the crash site and recover the victims, particularly given low temperatures at high altitudes and steep mountain slopes, placing additional pressure on medical and rescue crews.

Authorities also announced that the search operations are being conducted in phases, with the participation of a large number of local government agencies, alongside support from specialized teams experienced in handling severe aviation accidents.

Official Investigation and Preliminary Theories on the Cause of the Crash

Although investigations remain in their early stages, officials stated that preliminary reports suggest the aircraft may have unintentionally collided with mountainous terrain while attempting to land under complex weather conditions. However, the final cause of the incident has yet to be determined.

Global Sympathy and Indonesia’s Capacity to Manage Aviation Crises

The incident has sparked widespread sympathy within Indonesia and internationally, particularly given the country’s long-standing reliance on aviation to connect its many islands, making air accidents a sensitive issue over the years. The government is working to accelerate the investigation and provide full support to the families of the victims.