Smart Air

Cessna 208B Grand Caravan

A Smart Air Cessna 208B Grand Caravan, PK-SNS, experienced a loss of engine power shortly after takeoff from Nabire Airport (NBX/WAB) and ditched on the shore of West Nabire Beach, Nabire Regency, Central Papua. The thirteen occupants survived and the aircraft received substantial damage. The plane took off around 12.54 LT with the destination of Kaimana Airport. Approximately two minutes after takeoff, the pilot contacted Air Traffic Control (ATC) for permission to return to Nabire. ATC then cleared the flight to land on runway 17. The aircraft continued to lose altitude and was unable to reach the runway. As a result, the aircraft ultimately ditched in the sea near the Cemara Beach Logpond area, not far from the airport.