Search Underway for Missing Bering Air Plane Near Nome, Alaska

Authorities and local volunteers search for the missing Bering Air plane near Nome, Alaska, in challenging weather conditions.

News Summary

Authorities are searching for a missing Cessna 208B Grand Caravan EX plane that disappeared near Nome, Alaska, with 10 people onboard. The flight lost contact shortly after takeoff from Unalakleet, prompting search efforts amid challenging weather conditions. Local teams, including the Nome Volunteer Fire Department and the Coast Guard, are coordinating ground and aerial searches while the NTSB monitors the situation. Families of the passengers are being supported at a local hospital as hopes remain high for a safe resolution.

Search Underway for Missing Bering Air Plane with 10 People Onboard Near Nome, Alaska

Authorities are actively conducting a search for a missing Cessna 208B Grand Caravan EX propeller plane that disappeared while flying from Unalakleet to Nome, Alaska. The flight, which normally takes less than an hour, was carrying 10 people—9 passengers and 1 pilot—when contact was lost on Thursday afternoon.

Officials were alerted to the overdue aircraft at approximately 4:00 p.m. AST. The last known position of the plane was recorded at 3:16 p.m. AKST, indicating it had been in the air about 38 minutes since takeoff at 2:38 p.m. local time. At the time of its disappearance, the aircraft was flying at an altitude of 5,300 feet and had covered over 70% of the flight distance.

Search teams have pinpointed the location where the plane’s signal was lost, which is around 12 miles offshore over Norton Sound. The conditions around the area have posed challenges, particularly due to poor weather and visibility. The forecast has included light snow and freezing drizzle, leading to visibility dropping to half a mile in some areas, combined with wind gusts that may reach 35 mph overnight.

Teams on the Ground and in the Sky

Search and rescue operations are underway, coordinated by local teams including the Nome Volunteer Fire Department, which is currently conducting ground searches from both Nome and nearby White Mountain. In an effort to broaden their reach, a specialized C-130 Coast Guard plane has been dispatched to the scene. This aircraft is flying a grid pattern over both the water and the surrounding shoreline to gather further information on the missing plane.

As the situation unfolds, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is closely monitoring developments related to this case, ensuring that all necessary protocols are being observed. Transport officials remain hopeful that they will locate the aircraft and return its passengers safely.

A Community Comes Together

In response to this occurrence, local hospitals, including the Norton Sound Health Corporation, are on standby to address any medical emergencies that might arise. They have set up a family center at the hospital, providing a space for relatives of those on board the plane to gather while they wait for updates and news regarding their loved ones.

Importantly, authorities have advised community members against forming individual search parties. Given the unpredictable weather and safety risks, it’s best to rely on trained professionals who are equipped for these kinds of operations.

Response from Local Officials

As the search continues, Alaska’s Senator Dan Sullivan has expressed his concerns about the situation and extended his thoughts and prayers to those involved. The safety and well-being of the passengers and crew members remain a top priority for everyone in the community.

With every passing hour, the hopes of finding the missing Bering Air plane and its occupants are alive in the hearts of their families and friends. The collaborative efforts of rescue teams, local authorities, and healthcare providers demonstrate the fortitude and spirit of the community. Everyone is waiting with bated breath for any news that might bring them closer to a resolution in this distressing situation.