NOME, Alaska – A Bering Air flight carrying ten people disappeared from radar on Thursday afternoon while en route to Nome, Alaska, prompting an extensive search and rescue operation. The missing aircraft, a Cessna 208B Grand Caravan, departed from Unalakleet Airport at 2:37 PM AKST and was expected to arrive in Nome at 4:20 PM AKST. However, contact with the plane was lost at approximately 3:20 PM AKST as it flew over Norton Sound. Â
The disappearance of Bering Air Flight 445 has triggered a multi-agency response, with the United States Coast Guard leading the search efforts. The Coast Guard has deployed a C-130 aircraft to survey the area where the plane last made contact. Additionally, the U.S. Air Force has confirmed that it will be sending air support from Elmendorf Air Force Base to assist in the search. Â
Ground search teams are also actively involved in the operation, focusing on the area around the last known coordinates of the aircraft. Despite challenging weather conditions, including poor visibility and icing, search crews are determined to locate the missing plane and its passengers.
Bering Air, a regional airline that serves remote communities in Alaska, has confirmed the incident and is cooperating fully with authorities. The airline has expressed its concern for the passengers and crew on board Flight 445 and is providing support to their families during this difficult time.
The disappearance of Flight 445 has sent shockwaves through the close-knit communities of Unalakleet and Nome, where Bering Air is a vital transportation link. Residents are anxiously awaiting news of the missing plane and are hoping for a safe return of those on board.
This is a developing story, and authorities are continuing to gather information about the incident. Updates will be provided as they become available.
