Folks, I’m sipping my coffee and reading about a tragic plane crash in Alaska, where a charter plane went down near a remote radar site, killing all 8 people on board. The Federal Aviation Administration and military officials have confirmed the crash, and I’m trying to wrap my head around the details. The plane, a Cessna 441, was headed to Cape Newenham, about 450 miles southwest of Anchorage, when it crashed around 12:15 p.m. Thursday. I can only imagine how tough it must be for the families of the victims.
The flight was operated by Security Aviation, and according to Clint Johnson, the National Transportation Safety Board’s Alaska region chief, there were two pilots and six passengers on board. The Alaskan Command said the aircraft was a civilian-contracted flight carrying eight personnel, and search-and-rescue crews later confirmed there were no survivors. It’s just devastating to think about.
The plane went down at Cape Newenham Airport, an Air Force airstrip that provides access to the Long Range Radar Site. I’m not surprised that only military and approved charter flights are allowed to land at this facility, given its remote location and sensitive nature. The cause of the crash is still unknown, and the FAA and NTSB will be investigating.
I have to say, the more I read about this crash, the more I’m impressed by the bravery and dedication of the people involved in search and rescue operations. The terrain around Cape Newenham Airport is pretty treacherous, with high terrain reported on both sides and at the south end of the runway. US Air Force Lt. Gen. Robert Davis expressed his condolences, saying “This is a devastating loss for our military family and the communities we serve.”
The names of the passengers and crew will be released after next of kin have been notified, and I can only imagine how tough this must be for their loved ones. Alaska Sen. Lisa Murkowski also expressed her condolences, saying she’s traveled extensively with Security Aviation throughout Alaska and appreciates the response of the U.S. Coast Guard, NTSB, Alaska State Troopers, and the Rescue Coordination Center.
As I finish reading this article, I’m reminded of the risks that people take every day to serve their country and communities. It’s a sobering thought, and I’m grateful for the bravery and dedication of those involved. And on a lighter note, I guess this is a good reminder to always appreciate the safety of commercial air travel – after all, we don’t often think about the risks involved in flying, until something like this happens.
Armchair patriot. Believes in the free market, cold beer, and that there’s always a guy named George behind every CNN segment.
Former remote-throwing champion turned #1 couch commentator on liberal panic in the media. Born in Texas (or so his mug says), he earned a degree in Fake Newsology & Beer Philosophy from YouTube University.
