Indonesia: 2 pilots killed after a plane lands in South Papua
Smart Air Cessna attacked shortly after landing at Korowai Batu Airstrip, South Papua
A small commercial aircraft operated by Smart Air was attacked shortly after landing at Korowai Batu Danowage (WAKY) airstrip in Boven Digoel Regency, South Papua province.
Local media reported that the incident took place on Wednesday (February 11), in which two pilots were killed while all passengers survived unharmed. It has been widely reported by Indonesian media amid ongoing security concerns in the region.
Detik.com reported that the Cessna Grand Caravan (PK-SNR), en route from Tanah Merah, was fired upon around 11:00 local time by unknown assailants immediately after touchdown.
Police spokesman Cahyo Sukarnito confirmed the pilot and co-pilot were killed, while the 13 passengers escaped.
Kompas.com detailed that Captain Egon (pilot) and Baskoro (co-pilot) fled with passengers into nearby forests after an emergency GPS alert.
The pilots were pursued, captured, and executed at the airstrip; the 13 passengers — all local residents, including an infant — remained safe and were later evacuated.
Tempo.co outlined the chronology: departure at 10:35 am, landing at 11:05 am, and shooting from adjacent forest cover.
Pilots' death confirmed
By 3:27 pm, authorities confirmed the pilots' deaths.
The plane landed intact but sustained gunfire damage and no crash occurred.
Authorities suspect an armed criminal group, possibly linked to Papuan separatists, though no group has claimed responsibility.
Investigations by Polda Papua and the Damai Cartenz Task Force continue.
Local media reported that the plane was not "shot down" or "crashed" and that all passengers were safe.
The incident underscores a targeted ground attack in a volatile area, while swift official response ensured safety for the passengers.
