Tragically, five individuals lost their lives in a plane crash in the remote Morobe Province of Papua New Guinea. The small aircraft took off from the Wasu airstrip and went missing shortly after 11am local time on Sunday.
Local helicopter operator Jurgen Ruh, along with PNG’s Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso, discovered the crash site the following morning. However, due to the challenging terrain and weather conditions, rescue teams were unable to reach the area for another full day.
“Our medical team finally managed to get to the crash site of P2-SAM, and our doctor has confirmed that there are no survivors,” Jurgen Ruh stated. The crash occurred at an altitude of approximately 8,400-8,500 feet, a location characterized by its remoteness and lack of accessible landing zones.
Deputy Prime Minister Rosso explained that often in such challenging terrains, it can take considerable time to locate crash sites, and adverse weather had delayed their efforts. “They needed a winch and a specialist aircraft because the location – there was no landing pad nearby, no village nearby; it was really, really remote, really high,” he noted.
An investigation into the incident is currently in progress. Preliminary observations suggest that all individuals aboard died upon impact and in the subsequent fire. Rosso extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, sharing, “The people on board – I knew them all personally.”
This incident serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers of aviation in remote areas. As investigation efforts continue, the community unites in mourning the loss of these individuals.
In challenging times like these, it’s essential to support the affected families and honor the memories of those lost. The resilience of rescue teams in locating the site, despite the odds, highlights their dedication and professionalism.
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