Indonesian Air Force Confirms US Aircraft in Padang Followed Proper Procedures
The Headquarters of the Indonesian National Armed Forces Air Force (TNI AU) has confirmed the presence of a United States military aircraft passing through the airspace over Padang, West Sumatra, on Monday, 1 June 2026. The aircraft’s presence drew public attention after flight tracking data was shared by a netizen on social media.
The Head of the Indonesian Air Force Information Service, I Nyoman Suadnyana, stated that the aircraft is a Lockheed C-130T Hercules belonging to the US Navy. The aircraft was conducting a test flight on 1 June 2026, following an emergency landing at Minangkabau International Airport (BIM), Padang, on 25 May 2026.
Nyoman explained that the aircraft was originally flying from Malaysia to the US military base in Diego Garcia. However, during the journey, the aircraft experienced engine trouble, necessitating a diversion to the nearest airport. “There was an issue with engine number three, so it had to land at the nearest airport, which was BIM, Padang,” Nyoman said when contacted on Wednesday, 3 June 2026.
He emphasised that the landing was conducted in accordance with established procedures and no violations of aviation regulations were found. The aircraft also possessed all necessary documents and permits. “Therefore, there were no violations; everything was according to procedure,” he stated.
Nyoman also ensured there were no other agendas regarding the passage of the US military aircraft through Indonesian airspace. He noted that the entire crew underwent inspections by airport security officers upon landing. “Officers have conducted a thorough inspection. It was purely due to engine trouble,” he added.
The aircraft remains in Padang to undergo repairs, including the replacement of damaged engine components. As spare parts must be brought in from abroad, the repairs will take some time before the aircraft can resume its flight. The aircraft is scheduled to take off again on Thursday, 4 June 2026. “It will fly again tomorrow,” said Nyoman.