Eight people are dead after a plane carrying multiple Army engineers crashed Thursday near an isolated Alaskan radar station.
The Federal Aviation Administration said the crash occurred Thursday at 12:15 p.m. when a chartered Cessna aircraft went down near the Cape Newenham Long Range Radar Site airport in southwestern Alaska. No immediate information was released on the cause of the crash, but the FAA and the National Safety Transportation Board are investigating.
“This is a devastating loss for our military family and the communities we serve,” said U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Robert Davis. “These individuals were dedicated professionals carrying out a vital mission in a demanding environment. Our absolute priority right now is providing unwavering support to their families, friends, and teammates during this devastating time. We are profoundly grateful for the swift and tireless response of our search and recovery professionals.”
The plane left Anchorage and its final destination was Cape Newenham, the location of an Air Force-managed radar tracking site.
Two of the victims on the plane were members of the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers, which chartered the flight. Six passengers and two pilots with flight company Security Aviation were on the flight.
“We have received confirmation that the two [U.S. Army Corps of Engineers] employees onboard were fatalities. Next of kin have been notified. We are coordinating closely with the appropriate local, state, and federal authorities,” the Army Corps said.
The fatalities were confirmed by a rescue team from Alaska Air National Guard’s 176th Wing.
“Guardian Angel personnel from the 212th Rescue Squadron confirmed there were no survivors,” Alaskan Command said. “The names of the passengers and crew will be released 24 hours after notification of next of kin.”
Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) offered her condolences to the victims of the crash, noting she has frequently flown on flights operated by Security Aviation.
“I join Alaskans in condolences as we learn of the plane crash in Cape Newenham today. I’ve traveled extensively with Security Aviation throughout Alaska, and have met many of their experienced pilots,” she said. “Alaska is praying for those on board, their loved ones, and the team at Security Aviation.”