Goselin, an American pilot employed by Indonesian aviation company PT AMA, was shot and killed on Thursday shortly after landing at the Ipdeheik airstrip in Balinggama village, Yahukimo Regency, according to Indonesian authorities. Armed separatists later attacked and burned the aircraft.
PT AMA specializes in providing essential aviation services to some of Indonesia’s most remote communities, including medical evacuations, emergency response, cargo and passenger transportation, and humanitarian flights that deliver critical supplies and services to isolated villages.
After graduating from Bridgewater State University in 2019, Goselin built an impressive flying career that reflected his passion for aviation and service. He towed advertising banners over Cape Cod, flew skydivers in the U.S. Virgin Islands, and conducted passenger transportation missions throughout Alaska before joining PT AMA in 2024.
During his time with the company, Goselin helped connect remote communities to lifesaving medical care, emergency assistance, and vital supplies, flying missions in one of the world’s most challenging operating environments. His work touched countless lives across the Papua region.
Indonesian military officials said security forces recovered Goselin’s body on Friday after securing the remote airstrip. Brig. Gen. Riyanto, deputy commander of Habema Operations Command, said a team of 10 personnel carried out the evacuation following a rapid operation to secure the area.
The West Papua Liberation Army, the armed wing of the Free Papua Movement, claimed responsibility for the attack in a video distributed to media outlets. In the video, rebels carrying firearms and axes raised the Morning Star flag, a symbol of Papuan independence, as they acknowledged their involvement.
Goselin’s death has sent shockwaves through the aviation community, particularly among those who knew him from Bridgewater State University and throughout his flying career. His dedication to serving remote populations through humanitarian aviation exemplified the vital role pilots play in delivering hope and essential services to communities with limited access to healthcare and transportation.
Today, we pause to remember Nicholas F. Goselin—not only as a skilled pilot, but as a compassionate humanitarian whose commitment to helping others carried him to some of the world’s most remote destinations. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of service and dedication will not be forgotten.
