A small plane with 10 people aboard has gone missing in Alaska. It is out there and searching for it.
The plane, a Cessna that was operated by Bering Air, had been on a flight from Unalakleet to Nome on Thursday. Officials were informed at about 4 p.m. that it was missing. It was carrying nine passengers and a pilot.
Air searches were difficult on Thursday night because of bad weather. The Nome Volunteer Fire Department searched for the plane on the ground, while the United States Coast Guard and Air Force assisted from the air.
The plane was last tracked over Norton Sound, approximately 12 miles from land, at about 3:16 p.m. It was snowy, very cold and windy. The pilot had told air traffic control that he was waiting for a clear runway to land.
Experts say ice may have built up on the plane’s wings, which would have made them difficult to fly. But some hope remains: the ice of the sea may allow the plane to stay afloat.
It was better weather for searching on Friday morning. The Coast Guard and other teams were searching the area but had not found the plane by early morning.
The F.B.I. is also assisting by attempting to track the passengers’ phones. Hospitals stand ready to assist if needed. Relatives of those on board are awaiting news.
A U.S. senator from Alaska said he was praying for the missing passengers and the rescuers.
