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Pilots' Indonesian air drama close to end

25 Oct 2014 00:52:28

theaustralian.com.au

TWO Indonesian air force jets intercepted the small plane piloted by Graeme Jackline and Richard MacLean on Wednesday morning, forcing it to land in Manado, Sulawesi, for airspace violations.


One of the air force pilots has revealed he had his weapon "locked on" the plane when it refused to land for several hours.


On landing at Sam Ratulangi Airport, Manado, armed air force officers swarmed the aircraft and frisked the two Australians.


Indonesian authorities say they didn't have the correct documents and they have agreed to pay a Rp 60 million ($5670) fine.


Airport spokesman Syaifullah Siregar says all the necessary paperwork is on its way.


"This morning I have called Jakarta and the flight approval is being prepared," he told reporters on Friday.


"Hopefully today, all documents can be completed and they can continue their flight again."


Although their first moments in Indonesia were tense, the men have since been photographed looking happy, posing for photos with air force personnel in the dorm they have stayed in for two nights.


The Australians were on a delivery job, taking a small 1966 Beech twin-engine plane from Darwin to Cebu in the Philippines.


Read full story: theaustralian.com.au

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