Helicopter deployed to assist SAR operation searching for missing journalists

The Banten Search and Rescue (SAR) office is optimising SAR operations by deploying a Dauphin AS365 N3+ helicopter, registration number HR-3604, to support the search for five journalists who lost contact in the waters of the Sunda Strait, Pandeglang Regency, Banten, while covering activities at Mount Anak Krakatau.

“Helicopter HR-3604 departed from Atang Sendjaja Air Force Base (ATS) at 12:36 WIB and is scheduled to arrive at JIExpo Kemayoran, Jakarta, at 12:52 WIB. The flight route includes JIExpo Kemayoran – Carita Beach – Banten BPBD – Helipad/JIExpo Kemayoran,” stated the Head of the Banten SAR Office, Al Amrad, in Pandeglang on Thursday.

He explained that the helicopter is carrying seven people as part of an effort to strengthen the search through aerial support, specifically for monitoring the SAR operational area around the Sunda Strait and Mount Anak Krakatau.

In addition, drones have been deployed on ships to maximise visual range. Nevertheless, the SAR team remains vigilant regarding maritime meteorological factors, including dynamic wind directions around the Sunda Strait.

“We have equipped a drone on one of the ships. We have prepared it for today, but looking at the field conditions, where wind directions can change, we must remain attentive,” he said.

According to Al Amrad, the expansion of the search is being conducted with safety as the priority, given that volcanic activity and weather conditions in the surrounding waters remain on alert.

“We are monitoring the development of Mount Anak Krakatau’s activity. Yesterday, there was a request to see if we could enter this area (Anak Krakatau). However, we will only attempt it if conditions are safe; safety is our primary concern,” concluded Al Amrad.