Basarnas Deploys Helicopter to Distribute Aid to NTT Earthquake Victims

The distribution of logistical aid to areas affected by the earthquake in East Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), has involved a helicopter belonging to the National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas). The use of the Dauphin AS 365 N3+ HR-3604 helicopter is intended to accelerate the distribution of logistical aid for residents who have become victims.

On Sunday (23/8/2026), the ninth day of the SAR operation, the Basarnas helicopter distributed aid packages from the Indonesian Air Force to a helipad in Ronting, Satar Kampas Village, North Lamba Leda District, East Manggarai.

“The aid was received by Basarnas personnel together with SAR Potential personnel for subsequent distribution to communities affected by the earthquake,” said Basarnas Director of Operations First Admiral Yudhi Bramantyo on Sunday (23/8/2026).

Previously, Yudhi said, Basarnas had also distributed logistical aid from the Presidential Office as well as assistance from the Labuan Bajo Pinisi Ship Association, Grahawisri.

“To meet the needs of affected communities in areas that are difficult to reach by land routes,” Yudhi stated.

In addition to supporting aid distribution, the helicopter also transported personnel carrying out team rotations for those serving in the SAR operation in East Manggarai and surrounding areas. In recent days, the helicopter has also been used to evacuate critically injured earthquake victims to Komodo Regional Hospital in Labuan Bajo, West Manggarai.

“Basarnas, together with all SAR Potential elements, continues to ensure that operational support and humanitarian assistance can reach affected communities, especially in areas where access remains limited due to the impact of the earthquake,” Yudhi concluded.