Kupang, E. Nusa Tenggara (ANTARA) – The Indonesian Air Force deployed C-130 Hercules transport aircraft and dozens of personnel to airlift 13 tons of emergency aid to survivors of a powerful magnitude 7.7 earthquake that devastated Flores Island in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT).
The relief operation, operating out of El Tari Air Force Base in Kupang, is focusing its primary airbridge on Maumere in Sikka Regency before staging onward distribution to severely impacted and isolated regions, including Ende, Nagekeo, and Bajawa.
“From Maumere, we will then distribute (aid) to Ende, Nagekeo, Bajawa, and several other affected areas,” confirmed Air Commodore Somad, Commander of El Tari Kupang Air Force Base, on Sunday.
To reach isolated communities cut off by land, the Air Force also deployed locally stationed helicopters to deliver supplies directly to survivors.
Somad explained that the Air Force mobilized a total of three aircraft to support the humanitarian mission in Flores, comprising two Hercules transport planes and one Boeing aircraft.
In addition to facilitating logistics, El Tari Air Force Base sent supplementary assistance, including food, clothing, clean water, and urgent medical equipment to address supply shortages at local relief centers.
To ensure ground operations run smoothly, the military deployed 66 specialized personnel to key distribution hubs, including Maumere and Labuan Bajo.
Somad reported that military personnel encountered no major disruptions during the first 48 hours of the response.
“There have been no significant issues during the distribution process,” Somad added, noting that air crews and support personnel remain on high alert as damage assessments continue across the region.
Translator: Kornelis Kaha, Yashinta Difa
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
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