Second rescue attempt unsuccessful as search continues for survivors of NCA plane crash

A rescue team headed for the North Coast Aviation's plane crash site had to return to Lae between 5pm - 6pm this afternoon, as a result of the cloud cover thickness over the mountains descending into the crash site.

Manolos Aviation's Chief Executive Officer, Captain Jurgen Ruh confirmed this, stating that a nurse and doctor from his team had to return with the rescue squad, along with PNG Defense Force soldiers and others on board as they couldn't be winced down.

This was the second unsuccessful rescue attempt today after the first flight out piloted by captain Ruh with Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso, who couldn't land due to the density of the forest.

A third attempt is set for tomorrow morning as the search continues for survivors.