JUNEAU, Alaska (AP) — A tragic aircraft accident occurred on Thursday when a charter plane carrying eight individuals crashed at a secluded radar facility in western Alaska, resulting in the loss of all lives on board, according to the U.S. military.
The incident took place at Cape Newenham Long Range Radar Site Airport, which is situated roughly 450 miles (725 km) west of Anchorage, Alaska.
“This is a devastating loss for our military family and the communities we serve,” expressed U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Robert Davis, who oversees the Alaskan Command, the Alaskan North American Aerospace Defense Command Region, and Eleventh Air Force, in an official statement.
According to the statement, the radar site, part of a network monitoring aircraft within Alaska’s airspace and borders, is operated by the Pacific Air Forces Regional Support Center.
Information on the exact tasks the individuals were performing was not disclosed in the statement, which described the aircraft as a “civilian-contracted aircraft.”
Lt. Gen. Davis commended those on the flight as “dedicated professionals carrying out a vital mission in a demanding environment.” He emphasized that the main focus now is to provide steadfast support to their families, friends, and colleagues during this difficult period. He also expressed gratitude for the quick and diligent efforts of the search and recovery teams.
Clint Johnson, the head of the National Transportation Safety Board’s Alaska region, reported earlier on Thursday evening that the aircraft carried two pilots and six passengers.
The plane had departed from Anchorage and was believed to have met its fate early Thursday afternoon as it approached Cape Newenham, Johnson indicated.
