The US Coast Guard has confirmed that a small plane missing off Alaska’s coast has been found. Authorities recovered three bodies, while seven others remain trapped inside the wreckage due to the plane’s damaged condition.
Incident Details
The Cessna Caravan, operated by Bering Air, carried nine passengers and a pilot when it vanished from radar 12 miles (19km) offshore. Rescuers later discovered the wreckage 34 miles southeast of Nome, where it was headed from Unalakleet.
At 4:00 PM local time (01:00 GMT) on Thursday, the Alaska State Troopers received a report that the flight was overdue. The pilot had informed air traffic controllers of plans to enter a holding pattern while awaiting clearance to land. Soon after, the aircraft lost altitude and speed before disappearing.
Search Efforts and Challenges
Severe weather conditions hampered search and rescue operations, limiting visibility and delaying the discovery of the wreckage.
The Nome Volunteer Fire Department confirmed that officials had not yet released the victims’ identities, but families have been notified.
Investigation Underway
US Transport Secretary Sean Duffy urged the public to pray for the 10 victims and confirmed that the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), with support from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), had launched an investigation into the crash.
Reactions from Alaska Leaders
Alaska Senator Lisa Murkowski expressed condolences, emphasizing that “Alaska is a big small town. When tragedy strikes, we’re never far removed from those directly impacted.”
Governor Mike Dunleavy also shared his grief, calling the incident “heartbreaking” and extending prayers to the victims’ families.
The 146-mile (235 km) route between Unalakleet and Nome spans the Norton Sound in the Bering Sea, where small aircraft serve as a vital link for travel and cargo transport.
Authorities continue working to recover the remaining victims and determine what led to the fatal crash.
