Minister scratched in heli crash

JAKARTA (JP): Minister/State Secretary Moerdiono confirmed yesterday that three ministers escaped unhurt when their helicopter crashed seconds after takeoff from Banda Aceh Thursday.

The Air Force's Puma helicopter dropped onto the ground from a height of "between one and two meters", due to engine trouble, at Iskandar Muda airport, Moerdiono said.

Carrying Minister of Health Sujudi, State Minister of Food Ibrahim Hassan and State Minister of Population Haryono Suyono, the chopper was leaving for Pidie, eastern Aceh.

Ibrahim Hasan was lightly scratched from the impact, Moerdiono told reporters here.

"There were neither any fatalities nor serious injuries. Minister Sujudi was fine and so was Minister Haryono Suyono," he said as quoted by Antara.

The helicopter was one of three that transported President Soeharto, a number of cabinet ministers and senior officials during a one-day visit to the westernmost province.

"When the entourage took off, right at the end of the runway, the second helicopter developed engine trouble. The helicopter dropped to one side from a height of between one and two meters," Moerdiono said.

The chopper's rotor blades and its side were damaged.

The helicopter carrying President Soeharto, Minister of Home Affairs Yogie S.M. and Moerdiono continued flying despite the accident, Moerdiono said. (pan)