A passenger plane carrying 10 people has gone missing during a flight in western Alaska, according to local and state officials. The aircraft, operated by Bering Air, was traveling from Unalakleet to Nome when it lost contact with authorities. Both cities are located in western Alaska, separated by the Norton Sound inlet.
The Alaska State Troopers reported that the small turboprop Cessna Caravan had nine passengers and one pilot on board. The Alaska Department of Public Safety stated on its website that crews are working to determine the plane’s last-known coordinates. The U.S. Coast Guard Alaska maritime region confirmed on social media that the aircraft was approximately 12 miles offshore when its position was lost.
Search and rescue efforts are underway, with multiple agencies collaborating to locate the missing plane. The Nome Volunteer Fire Department has been conducting ground searches from Nome and White Mountain. However, poor weather conditions and limited visibility have hindered air search operations. Despite these challenges, the U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Air Force have joined the effort, deploying aircraft to survey the area and assist in locating the missing plane.
The disappearance of the aircraft has raised concerns among local communities, as the region’s harsh weather and remote terrain often complicate search and rescue missions. The Norton Sound area, where the plane was last reported, is known for its challenging maritime and atmospheric conditions, particularly during the winter months.
Bering Air, the operator of the flight, has not yet released additional details about the passengers or the circumstances surrounding the disappearance. The company, which provides essential air service to remote Alaskan communities, has a strong safety record, but incidents like this highlight the risks associated with flying in Alaska’s rugged and often unpredictable environment.
As search efforts continue, families and communities await news of the missing passengers and crew. Authorities have urged anyone with information about the flight or its last-known location to come forward. The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the challenges faced by those living and traveling in Alaska’s vast and isolated regions.
