Search and rescue operations are in progress following the disappearance of a Cessna 208B Grand Caravan near Nome, Alaska. The aircraft, operated by Bering Air with ten individuals onboard, was traveling from Unalakleet to Nome when it went missing.
The plane’s last known position was approximately 12 miles offshore. State troopers described the aircraft as “overdue” for its arrival. In response, the US Coast Guard (USCG) Alaska dispatched an HC-130 Hercules from Air Station Kodiak to search for the missing plane.
Alaska’s Department of Public Safety and State Troopers Office reported that they were informed about the overdue aircraft by the Alaska Rescue Coordination Center (AKRCC) at around 16:00 on February 6, 2025. They stated: “On February 6, 2025, at 4:00pm, AST was contacted by AKRCC in reference to an overdue aircraft. It was reported that a Bering Air Caravan had gone missing while en route from Unalakleet to Nome, with 9 passengers and 1 pilot on board. SAR crews are working to get to the last known coordinates. Updates to follow.”
The USCG confirmed receiving notification of the missing Cessna at approximately 16:30 and later posted on social media that they were searching for its last reported position: “An HC-130 Hercules airplane crew from Air Station kodiak to search their last known position,” it said. “The aircraft was 12 miles offshore transiting from Unalakleet to Nome when its position was lost.”
Flight BRG445 involved a Cessna Caravan registered as N321BA. According to Flightradar24 data, it departed Unalakleet Airport at 14:37 and reached an altitude of 7,725 feet before descending gradually until its position became unavailable at around 15:16.
Weather conditions have hindered search efforts conducted by the Nome Volunteer Fire Department and other agencies including National Guard and Coast Guard units. The department noted ongoing limitations due to weather but confirmed collaboration with various organizations such as NOAA.
Bering Air is based in Nome and provides regional air services across Alaska’s northwest coast. Simple Flying reached out for comments regarding this incident.
In an update provided on Friday morning by USCG officials, searches so far have yielded “negative results.” The public has been advised against forming individual search parties due to safety concerns.
