Accident Summary
While descending to Sorong-Jefman Airport, the flight crew encountered poor weather conditions marked by a cloud base at 500 feet. Unable to locate the airport, they elected to hold over the area in anticipation of weather improvement. However, as fuel shortage became critical and the airfield remained unseen, the captain decided to ditch the aircraft east of the airport. All six crew members were successfully rescued, but the aircraft was lost.
Circumstances
The aircraft was on approach to Sorong-Jefman Airport when deteriorating weather reduced visibility. The cloud base was reported at 500 feet, preventing the crew from visually acquiring the airport. The crew turned to remain in the vicinity, expecting conditions to improve. Facing a dwindling fuel supply, the captain made the decision to ditch the aircraft in nearby waters. Rescue operations recovered all six crew members.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined the probable cause as: "Ditching caused by fuel exhaustion due to poor weather conditions at destination."