Authorities in Alaska have launched an urgent search operation after a Cessna 208B Grand Caravan aircraft, carrying ten people, went missing during its flight from Unalakleet to Nome. The plane, operated by Bering Air, lost contact on Thursday afternoon, prompting an extensive search by multiple agencies, including the Nome Volunteer Fire Department, the U.S. Coast Guard, and the U.S. Air Force.
The Nome Volunteer Fire Department confirmed that search efforts were being carried out both on the ground and in the air. However, poor weather conditions, including freezing drizzle, light snow, and strong winds reducing visibility to half a mile, have hampered aerial searches.
“The plane’s exact location is still unknown. We continue to expand search efforts to as many avenues as possible until the plane is located,” the fire department said in a statement. Officials have urged the public not to organize independent search efforts due to safety concerns.
According to data from FlightRadar24, the Cessna 208B Grand Caravan was last recorded over the Norton Sound at approximately 3:16 p.m. AKST. The aircraft was about 12 miles offshore when it disappeared from tracking systems.
The U.S. Coast Guard has since deployed an HC-130 aircraft equipped with specialized search-and-rescue equipment capable of detecting objects and individuals even in poor visibility conditions. Additionally, the U.S. Air Force is contributing resources to the search mission.
The Norton Sound Health Corporation has prepared for a potential emergency response, stating that the regional hospital in Nome is on standby for any medical needs related to the missing flight. A family support center has also been established to provide updates and assistance to relatives of the passengers.
David Olson, director of operations at Bering Air, assured the public that the airline was working closely with emergency response teams. “Staff at Bering Air is working hard to gather details, get emergency assistance, and coordinate search and rescue efforts,” Olson said.
Senator Dan Sullivan of Alaska addressed the situation on social media, writing, “We are hearing reports of a possible missing plane en route to Nome. Our thoughts and prayers are with the passengers, their families, and the rescue crew.”
This search comes amid heightened concerns over U.S. air safety, following two recent aviation tragedies. One involved a midair collision between a Black Hawk helicopter and a passenger jet near Washington, D.C., which resulted in 67 fatalities. Another incident occurred in Philadelphia, where a medevac jet crash claimed seven lives.
As search efforts continue in Alaska, officials remain hopeful for a successful outcome. The Coast Guard and local authorities are expected to provide further updates as more information becomes available.
