Charter Plane Crashes Near Remote Alaska Radar Site, Eight Dead
Cessna 441 from Anchorage went down on approach to Cape Newenham Long Range Radar Site Airport; two Army Corps of Engineers employees among casualties.
Image: Eddie Pollard / AI
Sarah Connor
A charter plane carrying eight people crashed Thursday near a remote radar site in western Alaska.
Rescuers confirmed no survivors at the crash site; the US military verified all eight individuals on board were killed.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers confirmed two of its civilian employees were among the casualties.
Lt Gen Robert Davis stated, "This is a devastating loss for our military family and the communities we serve."
This is a devastating loss for our military family and the communities we serve.
He further described the deceased as "dedicated professionals carrying out a vital mission in a demanding environment."
The Alaska Rescue Coordination Center launched a search and rescue mission after receiving a report of an "aircraft incident" near the Cape Newenham Long Range Radar Site.
Clint Johnson, an investigator, claimed the plane is believed to have crashed early Thursday afternoon on approach to Cape Newenham.
Johnson also stated that "two pilots and six passengers were on board."
The crash reportedly happened in foggy weather, according to the Flight Safety Foundation.
The airport is understood to be a private military site; the Pacific Air Forces Regional Support Center maintains the Cape Newenham installation.
Senator Lisa Murkowski offered condolences, stating, "I join Alaskans in offering condolences as we learn of the plane crash in Cape Newenham."
I join Alaskans in offering condolences as we learn of the plane crash in Cape Newenham. Alaska is praying for those on board, their loved ones, and the team at Security Aviation.
Murkowski added, "Alaska is praying for those on board, their loved ones, and the team at Security Aviation."
Clint Johnson noted that the information received so far is preliminary.
The NTSB and the FAA are investigating the crash; next of kin have reportedly been informed, and both agencies have begun their investigation into the incident.