A chartered aircraft carrying eight individuals, including two pilots and six passengers, reportedly crashed on Thursday while on approach to a secluded location in western Alaska.
Clint Johnson, who heads the National Transportation Safety Board's Alaska region, confirmed the number of people aboard the twin-engine Cessna. Information regarding their conditions was not immediately available.
Flight Details and Initial Reports
The plane departed from Anchorage and is believed to have gone down early Thursday afternoon as it neared Cape Newenham, a site approximately 40 miles south of Goodnews Bay. The flight was operated by Security Aviation and had been chartered for the journey from Anchorage to Cape Newenham.
The Alaska Rescue Coordination Center initiated a search-and-rescue mission after receiving an alert about an "aircraft incident" in the vicinity of the Cape Newenham Long Range Radar Site.
Senator Murkowski Expresses Condolences
Senator Lisa Murkowski, a Republican representing Alaska, expressed her condolences following the incident. She shared her personal familiarity with Security Aviation, noting her extensive travel with the company throughout Alaska and her interactions with many of their experienced pilots.
"I join Alaskans in condolences as we learn of the plane crash in Cape Newenham today," Murkowski stated. "I've traveled extensively with Security Aviation throughout Alaska, and have met many of their experienced pilots."
"I appreciate the U.S. Coast Guard, NTSB, Alaska State Troopers, and the Rescue Coordination Center for responding to the site," she continued. "Alaska is praying for those on board, their loved ones, and the team at Security Aviation."