A Bering Air flight’s disappearance over Norton Sound has sparked a widespread, high-stakes search effort as ten souls aboard remain unaccounted for in Alaska’s treacherous conditions.
Key Takeaways
- A Bering Air Cessna Caravan plane carrying 10 people went missing over Norton Sound, Alaska.
- The last known position was recorded 38 minutes after takeoff at 5,300 feet.
- The U.S. Coast Guard reported the plane was lost approximately 12 miles offshore.
- Severe weather conditions, including near-whiteout, fog, and freezing temperatures, are hampering search efforts.
- The aircraft is still classified as “overdue” and not as a crash or accident.
Missing Flight Details
A Bering Air Cessna Caravan carrying ten individuals disappeared while en route from Unalakleet to Nome, Alaska. The flight lost contact shortly after its departure, with the last position recorded 38 minutes later at 5,300 feet. Officials reported the aircraft vanished about 12 miles offshore in challenging weather conditions.
The U.S. Coast Guard is conducting an aerial search using a C-130 aircraft. Severe weather conditions, including near-whiteout conditions, fog, and sub-zero temperatures, complicate these efforts. Authorities are focusing the search over both water and shoreline while ground crews cover the coast.
Search Efforts Intensify
The Alaskan National Guard and other local agencies are heavily involved in the search. The Nome Volunteer Fire Department is coordinating on-ground operations and remains active in efforts to track any signs of the aircraft. They stated, “We are currently doing an active ground search from Nome and from White Mountain and have as much up-to-date information on the event as possible.” This intense coordination demonstrates the commitment to locating the aircraft and its passengers.
The National Transportation Safety Board is keeping a close watch on the operation, although no full investigation has commenced. Eluding the severe weather, the situation is complex as the harsh winter elements prevalent in Alaska only add to the difficulty of conducting efficient search and monitoring operations.
Community and Political Response
Bering Air operates in western Alaska, covering 32 villages, and has acknowledged the critical nature of the situation, working with emergency services for updates. Alaska Senator Dan Sullivan expressed concern and assured support for the families of those on board. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the passengers, their families, and the rescue crew,” he stated, emphasizing the continuous community and governmental backing during this troubling time.
While the plane remains classified as “overdue,” the overwhelming hope among officials and the community persists for a resolution. The focus remains on finding the aircraft soon as authorities mobilize to expand their search capabilities under adverse weather premises.
Sources:
- Crews in Alaska search for missing plane with 10 passengers on board – CBS News
- Bering Air Plane Vanishes from Tracker Map over Alaska – Newsweek
- Search Ongoing In Alaska For Missing Plane With 10 Onboard
