A tense search-and-rescue operation is unfolding in Alaska after a Cessna 208B Grand Caravan—a rugged, single-engine aircraft commonly used for regional travel—vanished Thursday afternoon with 10 people aboard. The plane, operated by regional carrier Bering Air, disappeared during a short flight from Unalakleet to Nome, two coastal communities separated by the icy waters of Norton Sound.
Key Details:
- Last Contact: The plane was last tracked approximately 12 miles offshore over Norton Sound at 3:16 p.m. local time.
- Passengers: Nine passengers and one pilot were on board.
- Weather Challenges: Light snow, freezing drizzle, and gusts up to 35 mph have crippled visibility, at times reducing it to half a mile.
Race Against Time and Elements
Local and federal teams, including the U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Air Force, and Nome Volunteer Fire Department, are scouring the area by air and ground. A Coast Guard HC-130 aircraft equipped with specialized technology to penetrate low-visibility conditions joined the search Thursday evening. However, harsh weather has grounded some efforts, forcing crews to rely on ground teams near Nome and White Mountain.
“We’re expanding search efforts through every possible avenue,” the Nome Fire Department stated, urging the public to avoid independent searches due to safety risks.
Community and Family Response
As hope hangs in the balance, local hospitals like the Norton Sound Regional Hospital have mobilized emergency resources. A family center has been established to support loved ones awaiting news.
David Olson, Bering Air’s operations director, emphasized the company’s focus on coordinating with rescue teams, while Alaska Sen. Dan Sullivan shared on social media: “Our thoughts and prayers are with the passengers, their families, and the rescue crews.”
Broader Context
The incident follows two recent U.S. aviation tragedies—a deadly midair collision near Washington, D.C., and a Philadelphia medevac crash—that have heightened concerns over air safety.
