Search Underway after Bering Air Flight Carrying 10 Disappears on Way to Alaska

An urgent search has been launched by authorities after the disappearance of a Bering Air flight carrying ten people traveling en route to Nome, Alaska.

The aircraft was flying from Unalakleet with nine passengers and one pilot when it was reported overdue after failing to arrive in Nome around 4 PM local time.

Search Efforts Hampered by Poor Weather

Search teams are working hard to pinpoint the plane's last known location. However, severe weather and low visibility have restricted aerial search efforts.

We are currently operating on a report of a missing Bering Air Caravan," the Nome Volunteer Fire Department said.

"An active ground search from Nome and White Mountain is ongoing, though poor weather has limited our ability to conduct an air search thus far.
Search parties from the National Guard, Coast Guard, and Alaska State Troopers have been notified and are involved in the search. The Norton Sound Health Corporation is standing by to assist.

Law enforcement has cautioned the public against independent searches because of the treacherous weather conditions.

"We appreciate the public's concern for the passengers on board, but for safety reasons we really discourage the public from doing their own searching," officials said.

Families of those missing have been urged to contact the Norton Sound Health Corporation for any support needed.

Last Known Contact with the Pilot

According to officials, the last known contact with the pilot was when he informed Anchorage Air Traffic Control that he would enter a holding pattern while waiting for the runway to be cleared.

This is still a developing story, and updates will follow as more information becomes available.

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