Indonesia’s South Kalimantan provincial government has temporarily suspended aerial firefighting operations following a fatal helicopter crash on 8 November 2026, amid improving wildfire conditions and renewed scrutiny of aviation safety procedures.
The accident involved a Eurocopter EC225LP Super Puma helicopter, registration VH-HGM, which crashed into the Barito River in Barito Kuala Regency while collecting water for wildfire suppression operations.
One Indonesian helicopter landing officer, Yayan Supyansuri, died in the accident. The two pilots survived.
South Kalimantan Governor Muhidin confirmed the suspension on 9 November, citing the improving wildfire situation following rainfall across the province. Ground-based firefighting teams, supported by community volunteers, will continue response efforts.
The accident follows a separate Indonesian Army Mi-17V5 helicopter crash in Central Kalimantan earlier in November that claimed three lives.
In response to the two accidents, Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) announced plans to evaluate safety procedures for helicopter water-bombing missions.
The proposed review includes crew protection measures and operating procedures during water collection from rivers and other bodies of water.
Indonesia’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation is also coordinating with the aircraft operator and relevant authorities to gather technical information concerning the Super Puma accident.
The cause of the crash has not been established. Investigators have yet to determine whether mechanical, operational or environmental factors contributed to the accident.
The developments have brought renewed attention to the safety of aerial firefighting operations, particularly the procedures and safeguards required to protect crews undertaking emergency response missions.
