Incident Overview
On 23 January 2023, a DHC-6-300 Twin Otter aircraft, registration PK-SMS, operated by PT Semuwa Aviasi Mandiri (SAM Air), experienced a serious incident during landing at Beoga Airstrip (WAVO), Puncak, Papua. The aircraft was conducting an unscheduled passenger and cargo flight from Mozes Kilangin Airport (WAYY), Timika, Papua. The flight was performed under Visual Flight Rules (VFR).
Flight Details
The aircraft departed Timika at 2149 UTC (0649 LT) in daylight conditions. On board were two pilots, one engineer, and eleven passengers. The Pilot in Command (PIC) acted as Pilot Flying, while the Second in Command (SIC) acted as Pilot non-Flying. The initial flight and approach were uneventful.
Landing and Runway Excursion
The aircraft landed on Runway 16, touching down approximately 240 meters from the runway threshold. Shortly after touchdown, the aircraft veered to the right. The pilot attempted to regain directional control by applying left rudder and varying engine power asymmetrically. When the aircraft continued to veer, the pilot engaged nose wheel steering. Despite these efforts, the aircraft departed the runway and traveled onto the right shoulder. During the excursion, the right wing contacted trees adjacent to the runway, causing damage. The landing gear subsequently traversed soft soil before the aircraft came to rest on the right runway shoulder, oriented on a heading of approximately 114 degrees.
Aftermath
The engines were shut down, and all occupants—two pilots, one engineer, and eleven passengers—evacuated the aircraft without injury. The National Transportation Safety Committee (KNKT) initiated an investigation, which is ongoing. The aircraft operator has reported safety actions to the KNKT, and further safety recommendations may be issued as the investigation proceeds.