Part 4/10:
After a routine pre-flight process, during which the crew conducted necessary checks and set the fuel for their journey, things seemed to be on track. The first officer operated under a company policy that he would be the Pilot Flying for this leg, with the captain taking over for the next. This arrangement was made in the wake of the first officer suffering from a cold, allowing him to manage a lighter load.
Cruising Into a Lull
During the cruise, the aircraft faced little activity, leading to what is known as “low arousal”—a period marked by reduced alertness that can be dangerous for pilots. This was accentuated due to the nighttime schedule and lack of communication as they prepared for the descent into Kayan's uncontrolled airspace.
Challenges at Kayan Airport