Search Underway for Missing Plane with 10 Aboard in Alaska
February 7, 2025: A Bering Air Caravan, a single-engine turboprop aircraft, vanished while en route from Unalakleet to Nome, Alaska. The flight carried nine passengers and one pilot.
Flight Details and Disappearance
The aircraft departed Unalakleet Airport at approximately 2:38 p.m. AKST, with an expected arrival in Nome around 4:20 p.m. At 3:16 p.m., the plane was last recorded at an altitude of about 5,300 feet, approximately 12 miles offshore over Norton Sound. Shortly before losing contact, the pilot informed Anchorage air traffic control of intentions to enter a holding pattern, awaiting runway clearance in Nome.
Search and Rescue Efforts
Multiple agencies have mobilized to locate the missing aircraft. The Nome Volunteer Fire Department initiated ground searches from Nome and White Mountain. However, adverse weather conditions and poor visibility have hampered aerial search operations. The U.S. Coast Guard dispatched a C-130 Hercules from Elmendorf Air Force Base in Anchorage to survey Norton Sound, but initial efforts yielded no sightings of the aircraft. Alaska State Troopers have also joined the search operations.
Community Response
The Norton Sound Health Corporation in Nome has announced its readiness to respond to any community medical emergencies arising from this incident. Authorities have advised residents against forming independent search parties due to the hazardous conditions. Families of those on board are encouraged to seek support services provided by local organizations.
Awaiting Further Information
As search efforts continue, the community remains hopeful for positive news. Updates from Bering Air and the Alaska Department of Public Safety are anticipated as more information becomes available. HOLR will provide the latest news on this developing story.
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Published by HOLR Magazine
Sources: AP News, NPR, The Independent, CBS News
Image Credit: Shutterstock