What happened
On 2 October 2015, a DHC-6 Twin Otter, identified by registration PK-BRM, was performing the sixth leg of a multi-sector flight for PT. Aviastar Mandiri. The flight, designated MV 7503, originated from Andi Jemma Airport in Masamba with the intention of reaching Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport in Makassar, Indonesia. The aircraft was carrying a total of 10 people, comprising two crew members and eight passengers.
The flight was being operated under Visual Flight Rules (VFR). During the flight, the pilot communicated with the Ujung Pandang Information officer, reporting that the aircraft had passed 4,500 feet and was climbing toward a target altitude of 8,000 feet. At approximately 0636 UTC, the pilot confirmed that the aircraft had reached the 8,000-foot level and requested a transponder code, which was provided.
Shortly after reaching the assigned altitude, the crew discussed altering their course to fly direct to the town of Barru, located roughly 45 nautical miles north of Makassar. At 0651 UTC, the pilot in command expressed an intention to climb further. Immediately following this communication, the aircraft impacted the ground.
Findings
- The flight was in the climb phase at the time of the accident.
- The aircraft was carrying 10 fatalities (all persons on board).