Runway excursion at Tarakan-Juwata Airport

No fatalities • Tarakan, Indonesia • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft veered off the runway at Tarakan-Juwata Airport following touchdown during periods of low visibility caused by smoke from nearby forest fires.

What happened

During an approach to Tarakan-Juwata Airport, the flight crew received notification that visibility was significantly reduced due to smoke originating from a local forest fire. Upon landing on runway 06/24, which has a length of 1,845 metres, the aircraft lost control. The plane subsequently veered off the prepared surface, resulting in the loss of one engine and the separation of the undercarriage. The aircraft sustained damage that rendered it a total loss.

Despite the severity of the excursion, all 110 occupants managed to evacuate the aircraft without any uninjured injuries reported.

Findings

At the time of the incident, visibility was measured at approximately 400 metres, which was below the required minimums for safe operations. The presence of smoke from forest fires was the primary factor impacting the visual conditions during the landing phase.

Probable cause

The aircraft veered off the runway during landing while operating in visibility conditions below established minimums due to smoke from forest fires.

All Boeing 737-800 accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2006-10-03 Boeing 737-200 accident near Tarakan, Indonesia?

An aircraft veered off the runway at Tarakan-Juwata Airport following touchdown during periods of low visibility caused by smoke from nearby forest fires.

Were there any fatalities in the 2006-10-03 Boeing 737-200 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2006-10-03 involved a Boeing 737-200, registration PK-RIE, operated by Mandala Airlines, at Tarakan, Indonesia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft veered off the runway during landing while operating in visibility conditions below established minimums due to smoke from forest fires.

Loading the flight search…