A search is underway for a Cessna Caravan aircraft carrying 10 people that went missing over Alaska’s Norton Sound on Thursday. The US Coast Guard and local search teams are working to locate the small plane after it disappeared 12 miles (19km) offshore while flying from Unalakleet to Nome.
The flight, operated by Bering Air, was reported overdue at 16:00 local time (01:00 GMT), according to the Alaska Department of Public Safety. Authorities confirmed that nine passengers and one pilot were on board, but details about their identities have not yet been released.
Rescue crews are focusing on the last known coordinates of the aircraft, but challenging conditions in the remote region could complicate efforts. The two cities are 146 miles (235km) apart, separated by the cold waters of the Bering Sea.
The volunteer fire department in Nome, where the flight was set to land, reported that the pilot had contacted air traffic controllers before disappearing. According to officials, the pilot had planned to enter a holding pattern while waiting for the runway to be cleared.
As the search continues, authorities are urging anyone in the area to report possible sightings. The US Coast Guard has not yet provided updates on weather conditions or potential causes of the disappearance. Bering Air has not issued a public statement.
Alaska has some of the most challenging flying conditions in the world. Its frequent harsh weather, remote landscapes, and limited radar coverage make small aircraft a crucial mode of transportation for many communities, making air travel incidents a significant concern.
Officials remain hopeful as rescue teams work against time to locate the missing plane and bring answers to those awaiting news.
