The US Coast Guard found a missing aircraft in Alaska that disappeared on Thursday carrying 10 people. Officials confirmed all of the individuals are believed to be dead.
The plane was found about 34 miles (55 km) southeast of Nome. According to an X post from the Coast Guard, three people have been recovered from the aircraft and declared dead. Seven others are believed to be in the wreckage but cannot be reached in their current condition.
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“USCG has ended its search for the missing plane after the aircraft was located approx. 34 miles southeast of Nome. 3 individuals were found inside and reported to be deceased,” the agency announced.
“The remaining 7 people are believed to be inside the aircraft but are currently inaccessible due to the condition of the plane. Our heartfelt condolences are with those affected by this tragic incident,” the post added.
Aircraft Experienced Sudden Loss of Altitude and Speed
CNN reported that the Cessna aircraft, owned by Bering Air, was carrying nine passengers and a pilot when it disappeared during its flight from Unalakleet to Nome.
Coast Guard Lt. Commander Benjamin McIntyre-Coble said that the aircraft “experienced some kind of event which caused them to experience a rapid loss in elevation and a rapid loss in speed.”
Poor weather conditions and low visibility had initially hindered the search. Ground crews were conducting searches from Nome to Topkok while a US Coast Guard flight team combed the skies.
On Friday, better weather conditions enabled the National Guard and Coast Guard to send helicopter search teams, which found the wreckage southeast of Nome.
Families Notified, Identities Unreleased
Details regarding the identities of those on board have not yet been released. However, Nome Volunteer Fire Department confirmed that all families of passengers have been notified. Alaska State Troopers Lt. Ben Endres said all passengers were adults.
Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy expressed his grief over the incident and said, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the passengers, the pilot and all of their loved ones during this very difficult time.” The incident’s cause is still investigated.
