Search continues for missing Alaska plane carrying 10 people

Rescue teams scrambled by air and land Friday to locate a missing Alaskan plane carrying nine passengers and a pilot, as community members rallied to support the search effort.  

The single-engine Cessna 208B, operated by Bering Air as Flight 445, vanished Thursday afternoon during a 135-kilometre trip from Unalakleet to Nome. 

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a search alert shortly after the plane failed to arrive by 3:20 p.m. local time.  

“We’re working closely with the National Transportation Safety Board, Coast Guard, and other agencies in an active search,” said David Olson, Bering Air’s operations director, on Friday. 

Coast Guard helicopters combed sea ice and coastlines near the flight path on Friday, while Alaska National Guard crews prepared to deploy a Blackhawk helicopter. 

The FBI also joined the effort, offering technical tools like cellphone data analysis.  

“We’re ready to provide specialized help if needed,” said FBI spokesperson Chloe Martin, stressing collaboration with local and federal partners.

In Nome, Mayor John Handeland urged unity on social media.

“We’re all holding onto hope and praying for good news,” said Handeland.

No wreckage had been found by Friday afternoon.

The plane’s last known location remains unclear, with harsh winter conditions complicating rescue efforts.  

Family and friends of those aboard awaited updates, while volunteers gathered supplies at Nome’s community center. 

“We just want to help,” said local resident Martha Anasogak, dropping off sandwiches. 

“Everyone’s praying they come home safe.”