A charter plane carrying two pilots and six passengers crashed Thursday while approaching Cape Newenham in western Alaska, prompting a search-and-rescue response. The twin-engine Cessna was operated by Security Aviation and had been chartered to fly from Anchorage to the remote site, according to KTUU.
The Alaska Rescue Coordination Center launched a search-and-rescue mission after receiving a report of an "aircraft incident" near the Cape Newenham Long Range Radar Site. Clint Johnson, the National Transportation Safety Board's Alaska region chief, confirmed the number of people on board but did not immediately have information regarding their conditions.
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."
She added, "I appreciate the U.S. Coast Guard, NTSB, Alaska State Troopers, and the Rescue Coordination Center for responding to the site. Alaska is praying for those on board, their loved ones, and the team at Security Aviation."
The National Transportation Safety Board and the Alaska Rescue Coordination Center have been reached out to for additional information. This is a developing story.