Authorities in Alaska are conducting an extensive search for a Bering Air flight that went missing on Thursday, February 6, 2025. The aircraft, a Cessna 208B Grand Caravan, was carrying nine passengers and one pilot. It departed from Unalakleet at 2:37 p.m. local time, bound for Nome, but failed to arrive as scheduled at 4:00 p.m.
The plane’s last known position was over Norton Sound, approximately 12 miles offshore, about 40 minutes into the flight. Adverse weather conditions, including poor visibility, snow, and freezing temperatures around -8°C (17.6°F), are complicating search efforts.
The U.S. Coast Guard has deployed a C-130 Hercules aircraft from Elmendorf Air Force Base in Anchorage to assist in the search. Ground teams from Nome and White Mountain are also involved, but challenging weather has limited aerial operations. Authorities have urged the public not to form independent search parties due to the hazardous conditions.
Norton Sound Health Corporation in Nome is on standby to provide medical assistance if needed. The names of those on board have not been released. This incident marks the third major aviation event in the U.S. within eight days, following recent tragedies in Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia.
Alaska’s senators have expressed concern and support for the affected communities. The search continues as authorities hope for a positive outcome.
