Indonesian Army helicopter crashes during forest fire operation

An Indonesian Army Mi-17V5 helicopter crashed in the waters of Seruyan Regency, Central Kalimantan, on Wednesday, November 4, 2026. The aircraft was conducting a water-bombing mission to combat forest and land fires near Tanjung Puting National Park.

The incident involved eight crew members. Reports indicate that one crew member has been confirmed dead, while five others have been rescued and are receiving medical treatment at a hospital in Kuala Pembuang. Search and rescue efforts are ongoing for the remaining two crew members.

The helicopter, registration HA-5235, reportedly encountered difficulties after taking off from Kuala Pembuang. Preliminary findings suggest the aircraft may have struck power lines obscured by heavy smoke, causing it to plunge into the water. The Indonesian Army is currently investigating the exact cause of the crash.