Search intensifies for missing Bering Air flight with 10 people on board in Alaska's harsh conditions
A Bering Air Cessna Caravan carrying ten people has disappeared over Alaska's Norton Sound, leading to intensive search operations hindered by adverse weather.
A Bering Air flight en route from Unalakleet to Nome, Alaska, has gone missing, prompting an extensive search operation. The Cessna Caravan, carrying nine passengers and one pilot, lost contact less than an hour after its 2:37 PM departure on Thursday. The aircraft's last known position was approximately 12 miles offshore over Norton Sound.
This is not the first time
Rescue efforts are being led by the Nome Volunteer Fire Department, with assistance from the U.S. Coast Guard, National Guard, and Alaska State Troopers. Ground searches are underway from Nome and White Mountain, but adverse weather conditions, including light snow and fog, have limited aerial search capabilities. Authorities are urging the public not to form search parties due to the hazardous conditions.
As it happens, this disappearance marks the third major aviation incident in the United States within eight days. On January 29, a commercial jetliner collided with a military helicopter over Washington, D.C., resulting in 67 fatalities. Shortly after, on January 31, a medical transport plane crashed in Philadelphia, claiming seven lives. These consecutive tragedies have heightened concerns about aviation safety and have prompted calls for thorough investigations.
Current pictures of the airplane crash in Washington D.C. Photo: NPR.
Details about the Bering Air flight
As mentioned, the Cessna Caravan left Unalakleet at 2:37 PM, and officials lost contact with it less than an hour later, according to David Olson, director of operations for Bering Air. The aircraft was 12 miles (19 km) offshore, the U.S. Coast Guard said. It was operating at its maximum passenger capacity, according to the airline’s description of the plane.
“Staff at Bering Air are working hard to gather details, get emergency assistance, and coordinate search and rescue efforts,” Olson said.
Unalakleet is a community of about 690 people in western Alaska, about 150 miles (240 km) southeast of Nome and 395 miles (640 km) northwest of Anchorage. Bering Air serves 32 villages in western Alaska from hubs in the previously mentioned villages and Kotzebue. Most destinations receive twice-daily scheduled flights from Monday through Saturday.
Map of the plane's possible location currently. Photo: KING 5.
Challenges in search and rescue operations
The vast and rugged terrain of Alaska presents significant challenges for search and rescue teams. The combination of harsh weather conditions and limited daylight further complicates efforts. Despite these obstacles, authorities remain committed to locating the missing aircraft and providing support to the families affected by this incident.
In response to the situation, the Norton Sound Health Corporation has prepared to respond to any medical emergencies and has established a family center at the regional hospital in Nome for relatives of the passengers. Community members are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and to offer support to those impacted by this tragic event.