The Bering Air flight, which had nine passengers and one pilot on board, departed from Unalakleet at 2:37 p.m. on February 6, bound for Nome in western Alaska.
However, by 4:00 p.m. local time, the aircraft had lost communication, prompting immediate search and rescue operations.
The tragic nature of the discovery was further emphasized when they added: “From reports we have received, the crash was not survivable. Our thoughts are with the families at this time.”
Extending their condolences, they added: “Our heartfelt condolences are with those affected by this tragic incident.”
At this time, officials have not publicly released the names of the passengers. However, the Nome Volunteer Fire Department confirmed that all families of those onboard had been notified.
In their statement, they urged: “Please keep families in your thoughts at this time,”
Meanwhile, the National Transportation Safety Board has launched an investigation into what caused the aircraft to crash.
However, he clarified: “What that event is, I can’t speculate to.”
She went on to thank the first responders who took part in the search efforts: “We are deeply grateful to the Alaska National Guard, the U.S. Coast Guard, the Nome Volunteer Fire Department, the Alaska State Troopers, and all those who braved dangerous conditions to conduct the search for the downed aircraft.”
She concluded by saying: “All of Alaska is praying for the families and friends of those who lost loved ones, for the Bering Air family, and the communities of Unalakleet and Nome.”
