The search for a missing flight en route to Nome, Alaska, concluded tragically as the U.S. Coast Guard found the wreckage with no survivors.
The commuter flight operated by Bering Air crashed into Norton Sound, killing all 10 individuals on board, Fox News reported.
The plane was en route from Unalakleet to Nome when it last transmitted data via FlightRadar at 3:16 p.m. on Thursday. The Coast Guard confirmed that the wreckage was found on sea ice approximately 34 miles southeast of Nome. Nine passengers and one pilot, all adults, were on the ill-fated flight.
Coast Guard Lt. Cmdr. Mike Salerno relayed the tragic news of no survivors after finding some passengers inside the intact but inaccessible aircraft. "The remaining 7 people are believed to be inside the aircraft but are currently inaccessible," stated officials from USCG Alaska. A loss in elevation and speed of the plane was reported at 3:18 p.m., just minutes after the last transmission.
Initial aerial searches conducted by C-130 Hercules planes sought to locate the missing flight after its disappearance over Norton Sound. Despite the quick response, no visual confirmation was made during the first phase of the search. Advanced efforts on Friday afternoon resulted in the discovery of the plane wreckage amid sea ice.
The plane was operating a regularly scheduled service, as confirmed by Lt. Ben Endres of the Alaska State Troopers. Three bodies were recovered from the site, but the condition of the plane has hindered further recovery efforts. The icy conditions pose challenges for rescue teams in retrieving the remaining individuals presumed inside the aircraft.
The Federal Aviation Administration is dispatching an investigator from its Aviation Safety Office of Accident and Prevention to determine the cause of the tragedy.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy asked people to offer prayers for the victims and families, acknowledging the FAA's role in the ongoing investigation. He emphasized the importance of uncovering the reasons behind the catastrophic crash.
Alaska Gov. Mike Dunleavy expressed heartfelt condolences to those affected by the crash, stating his gratitude for the search teams' efforts. He urged the Alaskan community to keep the bereaved families in their thoughts during this period of mourning. All government officials underscored the importance of support and solidarity in the face of such loss.
The U.S. Coast Guard sent its deepest sympathies to those impacted, emphasizing, "Our heartfelt condolences are with those affected by this tragic incident." The team acknowledged the challenging conditions and expressed sorrow at the outcome. Hundreds of volunteers and professionals worked tirelessly to locate the wreckage.
As investigations are underway, coordination between the Coast Guard, state troopers, and the FAA remains crucial. Efforts will continue to establish how this regular flight turned disastrously wrong. Hopefully, the findings will offer clarity and possibly prevent future tragedies.
This incident has undoubtedly cast a somber shadow over the closely-knit communities between Unalakleet and Nome. As a result, families are left grappling with the unexpected loss, supported by local and governmental institutions. Meanwhile, the events have reignited discussions on ensuring aviation safety, particularly in challenging Alaskan terrains.
Furthermore, all parties emphasize their commitment to a thorough investigation while addressing the immediate needs of affected individuals. The poignant scene of the wreckage on the ice vividly reinforces the harsh realities faced by those navigating wilderness-bound flights in Alaska.
In a devastating twist of fate, this event has left a lasting mark on many lives. Nevertheless, the solidarity shown by federal and state officers illustrates the collective will to uncover answers while standing by their communities. Amidst the grief, the enduring spirit of cooperation shines through in Alaska.
