The wreckage of a Bering Air plane, which disappeared over Alaska, has been located, with all ten individuals onboard feared to have perished, Alaska authorities announced. The missing aircraft, identified as a Cessna 208B, was discovered approximately 34 miles southeast of Nome, resting on sea ice, according to the U.S. Coast Guard.
Coast Guard officials reported that three individuals were confirmed deceased inside the plane. However, the remaining seven passengers are believed to be within the wreckage, trapped due to the challenging conditions at the crash site. Offering their sympathy, the Coast Guard released a statement expressing their deepest condolences to all families impacted by this tragedy.
The search and rescue operation, directed by officials from the U.S. Coast Guard Alaska Region, involved using an MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter. Upon locating the aircraft, two rescue swimmers were deployed to examine the crash site. This effort was a component of a larger, multi-agency operation involving the Alaska Army National Guard, Alaska State Troopers, and the Nome Volunteer Fire Department.
The ill-fated flight, identified as Bering Air Flight 445, vanished on Thursday while transitioning from Unalakleet Airport to Nome Airport, as documented by the Federal Aviation Administration. Reports indicated that the plane's last known position was roughly 12 miles offshore, when a rapid descent and loss of velocity occurred unexpectedly around 3:18 p.m. local time. This unexplained incident occurred just minutes before the plane was reported overdue at 4:30 p.m.
Efforts to locate the downed plane continued into the night despite the severe weather conditions that hampered the aerial search. Coast Guard Officer Ben McIntyre-Coble mentioned an ‘item of interest’ that arose during the search, yet details remained sparse at the time. The joint efforts of multiple agencies highlighted the urgency and complexity of the situation, as crews in Nome worked tirelessly in rescue operations.
In the aftermath of this tragic incident, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has initiated an investigation. Jennifer Homendy, NTSB chair, is expected to travel to the scene to oversee the examination of the wreckage's cause. This type of collaboration reflects the critical role these agencies play in ensuring aviation safety under such dire circumstances.
The loss has sent ripples of sorrow through Alaska’s tight-knit communities, as all onboard were presumed dead. As exploration continues, the recovery of those involved is of paramount importance, with Alaska State Troopers undertaking the task of bringing closure to this somber chapter.