A search operation is currently underway in Alaskan waters after a regional airline flight carrying 10 people went missing. The Cessna aircraft, operated by Bering Air, was en route from Unalakleet to Nome when it disappeared over the Norton Sound inlet. The Alaska State Troopers were notified of the missing aircraft with nine passengers and a pilot on board.
The Nome Volunteer Fire Department and other agencies are conducting ground and air searches to locate the missing plane. Poor weather conditions have hampered search efforts, but the US Coast Guard and US Air Force have joined the operation to assist in locating the aircraft.
Bering Air, based in Nome, serves over 30 local communities in Alaska. The missing aircraft, a Cessna 208B Grand Caravan, was last seen over the Norton Sound before its position was lost.
Concerns have been raised about the weather conditions at the time of the disappearance, with reports of light snow, freezing drizzle, and low visibility. The FBI is providing technical resources to aid in the search, including cellular analysis.
Despite challenging conditions, search and rescue teams are working diligently to gather information and locate the missing plane. Hospitals in the area are on standby to respond to any medical emergencies that may arise.
US Sen. Dan Sullivan of Alaska expressed his thoughts and prayers for the passengers, their families, and the rescue crew involved in the search operation.
