On Thursday, a tragic aviation accident unfolded in western Alaska as a chartered plane, with two pilots and six passengers, went down while nearing a secluded area, authorities reported.
Clint Johnson, who leads the National Transportation Safety Board’s operations in Alaska, informed The Associated Press about the incident involving the eight individuals onboard.
At the time of the briefing, Johnson did not have details on the status of those involved in the crash.
The ill-fated flight departed from Anchorage and is suspected to have met with the mishap on Thursday afternoon as it neared its destination at Cape Newenham, according to reports from the AP.
A search-and-rescue operation was mobilized following the crash of the charter plane, which encountered trouble upon approach to Cape Newenham in Alaska, carrying two pilots and six passengers at the time. (Hasan Akbas/Anadolu)
The twin-engine Cessna was operated by Security Aviation and had been chartered to fly from Anchorage to Cape Newenham, located about 40 miles south of Goodnews Bay, according to KTUU.
The Alaska Rescue Coordination Center said it launched a search-and-rescue mission after receiving a report of an “aircraft incident” near the Cape Newenham Long Range Radar Site.
Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, reacted to the crash on X, offering condolences and noting her personal experience flying with Security Aviation.
“I join Alaskans in condolences as we learn of the plane crash in Cape Newenham today,” Murkowski wrote. “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.”
Fox News has reached out to the National Transportation Safety Board and the Alaska Rescue Coordination Center for additional information.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.