A massive search is underway in Alaska for a plane that went missing with 10 people aboard. The Bering Air flight was en route from Unalakleet to Nome when it failed to land as scheduled at 4 p.m. on Thursday. Officials immediately launched a frantic search to find the missing aircraft.
Weather conditions hamper search efforts
The flight, carrying nine passengers and one pilot, lost contact with authorities before reaching Nome. Weather conditions, including low visibility and adverse weather, may have played a role in the plane’s disappearance, according to the Nome Volunteer Fire Department.
Search teams from the Alaska State Troopers, National Transportation Safety Board, the National Guard, and Coast Guard are all involved in the hunt. But bad weather is seriously hampering efforts. Search crews are struggling to get air support due to the intense conditions in the area.
Public advised against independent search parties
Fire officials in Nome have warned the public not to attempt independent search parties, as the weather could make matters worse. Search teams are concentrating on ground searches from Nome and White Mountain, but aerial operations are restricted for now.
Last known location before entering holding pattern
The plane’s last known location was before it entered a holding pattern, according to reports from Anchorage Air Traffic Control. Officials say the flight was overdue, but they haven’t confirmed whether it was a crash or just an accident.
Medical teams standby for possible crash scenario
Meanwhile, medical crews from Norton Sound Health Corporation are on standby, prepared to assist in case of a crash. But they have not been dispatched yet, as authorities continue to search for the missing plane.
Bering Air and community await updates
The flight was part of Bering Air’s commercial service. The airline has not commented yet on the situation. However, it’s clear the community is anxious as crews race to find the missing aircraft.
This search comes just days after another tragic aviation incident, where 67 people died in a midair collision over the Potomac River in Washington, D.C. The Alaska disappearance is another stark reminder of the risks that pilots and passengers face in extreme weather conditions.
