Authorities in Alaska are urgently searching for a Bering Air flight that disappeared en route from Unalakleet to Nome, carrying ten people into a severe weather zone.
Key Insights
- A Bering Air Cessna Caravan went missing over Norton Sound with ten people aboard.
- Severe weather, including fog and freezing temperatures, is complicating search efforts.
- Efforts involve the Alaska National Guard, Coast Guard, and state troopers.
- The plane is currently classified as “overdue” and not a crash.
Search for Missing Bering Air Flight
A Bering Air Cessna Caravan carrying nine passengers and one pilot from Unalakleet to Nome is missing over Norton Sound, Alaska. Contact was lost 38 minutes after takeoff when the aircraft was at an altitude of 5,300 feet. Severe weather conditions have exacerbated the challenges faced by the search teams.
The U.S. Coast Guard last recorded the plane’s position 12 miles offshore. Search efforts include a Coast Guard C-130 covering the water and shoreline. Ground crews are conducting operations along the coast, but severe weather, characterized by near-whiteout conditions, continues to hamper their activities.
Community Guidance and Official Involvement
Officials have advised local residents against organizing their own search parties due to dangerous weather. The Alaska State Troopers and National Guard are concentrating resources on a coordinated, professional search effort. The Nome Volunteer Fire Department is providing regular updates and expanding search operations.
The National Transportation Safety Board is monitoring the situation but has not launched an investigation, pending more information. Alaska Senator Dan Sullivan has expressed concern and offered thoughts and prayers for those involved, stressing the need for proper resources and support during this critical time.
Operational Status and Official Statements
While the flight is categorized as “overdue,” it is not classified as a crash or accident until further evidence is gathered. Bering Air, a vital operation in western Alaska serving numerous villages, is working closely with emergency services to assist in search and rescue efforts. In a heartfelt statement, Olson assured cooperation with authorities.
The Nome Volunteer Fire Department remains a crucial player in these efforts, operating with every resource available under the severe weather’s constraints. There remains a vigilant watch on conditions, hoping for a break that could advance search and rescue operations.
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
