8 dead after charter plane crashes in western Alaska
An infographic titled "Wreckage of missing Alaska plane, carrying 10 on board, located" created in Ankara, Turkiye on February 8, 2025. (Photo by Murat Usubali/Anadolu via Getty Images)
Eight passengers on board a charter plane were killed after the aircraft crashed in a remote part of western Alaska, according to military officials.
Officials say all six passengers and the two pilots were killed.
What we know:
The crash happened Thursday near the Cape Newenham Long Range Radar Site Airport, which lies about 450 miles west of Anchorage, Alaska.
The Cessna 441 left Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport and was heading to Cape Newenham before it crashed. Officials have not released additional details about the flight or what may have caused the crash, as investigators work to trace the aircraft’s final moments.
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What we don't know:
A statement released by the Alaskan North American Aerospace Defense Command Region and Eleventh Air Force did not provide any additional details about the work the people were doing, just saying it was a "civilian-contracted aircraft."
What they're saying:
United States Air Force Lt. Gen. Robert Davis described the loss as "devastating" to the military family and community, describing the team as "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 Source: This story was written with information provided by The Associated Press. This story was reported from Orlando.