Mount Rinjani to Deploy Thermal Drone for Climbing Evacuation Operations

Mount Rinjani National Park Management (TNGR) now possesses one thermal drone unit as an emergency response tool to assist climbers requiring evacuation in critical situations.

“This is a modified Matrice 4 drone designed to transport logistics during climbing evacuations,” said Astekita Ardiaristo, Head of Administrative Affairs at TNGR, when contacted on Saturday, 28 February 2026.

He stated that the availability of climbing evacuation support equipment at Mount Rinjani forms part of the review process following the fatal fall of Brazilian climber Juliana Marins in mid-2025.

The drone is equipped with thermal imaging, cameras, spotlights, and remote-controlled loudspeakers that can communicate from a distance during victim evacuation in the event of climbing accidents.

The drone can be charged using wind-powered power banks, facilitating operation in remote mountain areas.

“We haven’t tested it at altitude yet. We’re conducting ground-based trials first as a training exercise, so we become proficient with this equipment. When an incident occurs and we’re uncertain of the location, we’ll be prepared,” explained Astekita.

Currently, TNGR is conducting operational trials of the thermal drone by transporting logistics to incident locations before deploying ground-based evacuation teams.

“Initial assistance before ground evacuation involves the drone carrying communication equipment, water, emergency food supplies, and first aid materials,” Astekita clarified.

The thermal drone will ultimately be stationed at designated base camps alongside search and rescue team equipment to streamline evacuation operations.

“We may also position it at the emergency shelter at Plawangan, as we have several search and rescue equipment units on standby there,” he explained.

Mount Rinjani climbing operations currently remain closed. Astekita noted that climbing will reopen on 1 April 2026 with a daily quota of 400 climbers.