On Sunday, October 20, 2024, a Sam Air charter plane tragically crashed while attempting to land at Panua Airport in Indonesia’s Gorontalo Province, killing all four people on board, including the crew. Aviation authorities have launched an investigation at the crash site, as the incident has caused profound grief across the country.
Communication Lost, Plane Destroyed
The accident occurred shortly after the plane took off from Gorontalo’s Djalaluddin Airport at 7:03 AM local time. It was scheduled to land at Panua Airport at 7:33 AM, but all communication was lost at 7:22 AM. Authorities confirmed that the plane crashed into a swamp near the airport soon after. Reports from the scene indicate that the aircraft was found completely destroyed.
One Passenger and Three Crew Members Among the Dead
The four victims aboard the Sam Air plane were Captain Pilot M. Saefurubi A., First Officer M. Arthur V. G., Technician Budijanto, and passenger Sri Meyke Male. Unfortunately, none survived the crash. Their bodies were first evacuated to the Motoholu Pohuwanto Health Center. The three crew members’ remains are being prepared for transport to Jakarta, while the passenger’s body will be returned to her family.
Cause of the Crash Under Investigation
Director of Civil Aviation Public Relations, Mokhammad Khusnu, announced an extensive investigation into the crash shortly after the incident. The National Transportation Safety Committee (KNKT) and other relevant agencies are collaborating to determine the cause. Khusnu emphasized that the investigation would be thorough to ensure that appropriate measures are taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Widespread Damage and Power Outages in the Area
The crash not only caused destruction in the immediate area but also raised concerns among nearby residents. Power outages were reported in homes near Panua Airport, and locals expressed their shock. Eyewitnesses said that helicopters and emergency crews quickly arrived at the scene. A local witness, Manuel Arciniega, described the scene: “We saw not just the tower but also the wreckage from the plane and the explosion. It was a horrifying sight.”
Investigation Ongoing
Acting Director General of Civil Aviation, Lukman F. Laisa, extended his condolences following the tragic event. Laisa stated, “We will work closely with all stakeholders to ensure the investigation is conducted thoroughly to prevent such accidents from happening again.” Authorities expect to release more details in the coming days, along with new measures for improving air safety.
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