Plane Torched in Papua Highlands, Initial Chronology Revealed

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation at the Ministry of Transportation has received an initial report regarding an incident involving a pioneer aircraft owned by PT AMA with registration PK-RCY. The incident occurred at Balinggama Airstrip, Jayawijaya Regency, Papua Highlands, on Thursday (2/7/2026). Based on initial information received from the Class I Wamena Airport Operator Unit (UPBU), Director General of Civil Aviation Lukman F. Laisa stated that the aircraft departed from Wamena Airport at 06.30 WIT carrying one pilot and seven passengers. The aircraft was reported to have landed at Balinggama Airstrip at 06.46 WIT. Lukman said no information had been received regarding the security conditions in the area around the airstrip that indicated an unconducive situation. Prior to the flight, weather conditions along the route were reported to be good. However, based on the initial report, there was no information conveyed about the security situation from Balinggama Airstrip before the aircraft landed. After the pilot reported that the aircraft had landed, communication from the post in the airstrip area was reportedly cut off. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has also received an initial report from the Head of the Class I Wamena UPBU stating that the pilot, Nicholas F. Goselin, was reported dead. The suspected cause of the incident is still awaiting further confirmation from the authorities. Currently, PT AMA and the Class I Wamena UPBU, along with related agencies, are conducting further investigation and verification of the chronology to ascertain all facts on the ground. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation expressed its deepest condolences over the incident and will continue to coordinate with the flight operator, security forces, local government, and all relevant stakeholders to obtain accurate information and ensure that handling measures are carried out in accordance with regulations.