Jerry Jackson The U.S. Coast Guard has found the wreckage of a missing Bering Air Cessna Caravan off Alaska’s western coast. Three people have been confirmed dead, while seven others are presumed lost.
The Cessna 208B Grand Caravan EX took off from Unalakleet on Thursday, heading to Nome. The flight was supposed to last under an hour. At 3:18 p.m., the plane suddenly lost altitude and speed over Norton Sound. The pilot had reported a holding pattern due to runway traffic. Minutes later, the aircraft vanished from radar 12 miles offshore. No distress signal was sent.
Search Teams Recover Wreckage
Bad weather and low visibility slowed search efforts. By Friday morning, the wreckage was found 34 miles southeast of Nome. Lt. Cmdr. Mike Salerno of the Coast Guard described the scene as “extensive,” suggesting no survivors.
The Nome Volunteer Fire Department confirmed all passengers were adults on a scheduled commuter flight. Officials assured families that recovery efforts would continue.
Alaska’s Air Travel Risks
Alaska’s harsh weather and remote villages make air travel vital but dangerous. The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health reports the state has a high number of small-plane crashes. Many towns lack road access, making flights the main travel option.
Bering Air, based in Nome, operates 39 planes and helicopters. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has opened an investigation. Chair Jennifer Homendy plans to visit Alaska to help with the inquiry and assist families.
Recent U.S. Aviation Accidents
This crash adds to a string of deadly aviation incidents. In January, a passenger jet collided with an Army helicopter near Washington, D.C., killing 67 people. Days later, a Medevac jet crashed in Philadelphia, killing seven and injuring more than 20.
As recovery teams continue their work, Senators Lisa Murkowski and Dan Sullivan praised the rescuers and offered condolences to the victims’ families.