Flight History
On 3 August 2011, a Bell 412 helicopter, registered as PK-FUG, operated by PT. Nyaman Air, was conducting a scheduled chartered flight for PT Nusa Halmahera Mineral. The flight route was Gosowong (Halmahera Island, North Maluku) to Manado (North Sulawesi) and return. The accident flight was the return leg from Sam Ratulangi Airport, Manado, to Gosowong.
The aircraft, with a single pilot at the controls, took off from Manado at 0626 UTC (14:26 local time). On board were one pilot, one engineer, and eight passengers, totaling 10 persons.
Accident Sequence
After takeoff, the helicopter was observed flying via the north side of Mount Klabat, which was the direct track to Gosowong. The last communication with Manado air traffic control occurred at 0629 UTC, when the pilot reported the aircraft's position as radial 105 from the MNO VOR at 4.5 nautical miles.
At 0646 UTC, Manado ATC attempted to contact the pilot but received no reply. Subsequent search efforts were initiated, and the airport authority declared INCERFA at 0659 UTC, ALERFA at 0701 UTC, and DETRESFA at 0802 UTC.
The accident site was located at coordinates N 01° 28' 51.90" E 125° 08' 19.21" on Dua Saudara Mountain, Bitung, North Sulawesi, at an elevation of 2,283 feet.
Wreckage and Impact
Examination of the impact area and wreckage indicated that the aircraft's engine and systems were functioning normally prior to the collision. The helicopter was found with substantial damage. The report classified the accident as a Controlled Flight into Terrain (CFIT), meaning an airworthy aircraft under the control of the pilot unintentionally collided with terrain.
Injuries and Damage
All passengers and crew sustained fatal injuries. The aircraft suffered substantial damage. No fire occurred after impact.
Investigation
The investigation was conducted by the National Transportation Safety Committee (NTSC) of Indonesia. The report noted that the aircraft was airworthy, and no pre-impact mechanical failures were identified.