All 8 Dead After Charter Plane Crashes at Remote Alaska Radar Site
A twin-engine Cessna carrying eight people slammed into a remote radar installation in western Alaska on Thursday afternoon, killing everyone aboard. The air...
A twin-engine Cessna carrying eight people slammed into a remote radar installation in western Alaska on Thursday afternoon, killing everyone aboard. The aircraft went down near Cape Newenham, roughly 450 miles southwest of Anchorage, as it approached the facility around 12:15 p.m. local time.
Two pilots and six passengers were on the flight, which departed Anchorage under contract with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The plane, operated by Security Aviation, was headed to Cape Newenham Long Range Radar Site Airport when it crashed. At least two of the six passengers worked for the Army Corps, according to agency statements.
A Critical Infrastructure Hub
Cape Newenham sits at the edge of Alaska's vast frontier, serving as a gateway to one of the nation's critical air-defense assets. The Long Range Radar Site tracks aircraft moving through Alaska's airspace and monitors activity near the Canadian border—a responsibility that demands constant staffing in a region where weather and isolation present perpetual challenges.
The facility is managed by the Pacific Air Forces Regional Support Center. Access is restricted; only military and pre-approved civilian contractors can land there. The installation plays a vital role in early warning systems that protect North American airspace.
Investigation Underway
The National Transportation Safety Board will lead the investigation into what caused the crash. The Federal Aviation Administration said preliminary information suggests the aircraft was on approach when it went down, but the exact circumstances remain unclear.
"This is a devastating loss for our military family and the communities we serve," Lt. Gen. Robert Davis, commander of Alaskan Command, said in a statement. Davis noted that those on board "were dedicated professionals carrying out a vital mission in a demanding environment."
Search and recovery teams confirmed there were no survivors. The Army Corps of Engineers said it is coordinating with federal, state, and local authorities as the investigation proceeds, and has notified the families of those killed.
