Eight killed in charter plane crash near remote site in western Alaska
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A charter flight carrying eight people crashed in a remote region of western Alaska on Thursday, with officials confirming that all aboard perished. The Cessna 441 had departed from Anchorage and was bound for the Cape Newenham Long Range Radar Site when it went down west of the site’s airstrip, according to the Federal Aviation Administration.
The victims comprised two U.S. Army Corps of Engineers personnel, four contractors, and two pilots, the National Transportation Safety Board reported. Alaska Senator Lisa Murkowski identified the operator as Security Aviation, a company that provides charter services across the state.
The NTSB said on Friday that the crash’s cause remains under investigation. The flight crew had attempted a first landing approach but aborted it because of poor visibility—they could not see the ground. On the second approach, the aircraft crashed. The surrounding terrain rises sharply, making the area particularly challenging for aviation, the NTSB noted.
Severe weather initially hampered rescue teams, delaying their location of the wreckage, which was eventually found about a quarter-mile from the runway. The debris was highly fragmented, indicating a violent impact.
Alaska’s other senator, Dan Sullivan, issued a statement saying, “Julie and I join our fellow Alaskans in praying for the families and loved ones of those who were killed.” Senator Murkowski also expressed condolences on social media, adding, “I’ve traveled extensively with Security Aviation throughout Alaska, and have met many of their experienced pilots. … Alaska is praying for those on board, their loved ones, and the team at Security Aviation.”
The Cape Newenham radar station is managed by the Pacific Air Forces Regional Support Center and forms part of a string of remote surveillance sites that monitor aircraft in Alaskan airspace and along its borders, according to Alaskan Command.
U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Robert Davis, commander of Alaskan Command and the Alaskan NORAD Region, called the incident “a devastating loss for our military family and the communities we serve.” He added, “These individuals were dedicated professionals carrying out a vital mission in a demanding environment. Our absolute priority right now is providing unwavering support to their families, friends, and teammates during this devastating time.”
Sources: Reuters and abcnews
