A plane crash occurring at today 1:21 AM on April 13, 2025, in Alaska. However, I can provide information on a significant aviation tragedy that occurred earlier this year.
**Bering Air Flight 445 Crash**
On February 6, 2025, Bering Air Flight 445, a scheduled commuter flight from Unalakleet Airport to Nome Airport, tragically crashed over the Norton Sound in Alaska. The aircraft, a Cessna 208B Grand Caravan EX with tail number N321BA, was carrying 10 individuals: one pilot and nine passengers. All occupants lost their lives, marking it as one of the deadliest plane crashes in Alaska in 25 years.
**Details of the Incident**
The flight departed Unalakleet at 2:37 PM local time. Less than an hour later, the aircraft lost contact with air traffic control. Weather conditions at the time included light snow and fog, with temperatures around 17°F (−8.3°C). The plane was reported missing approximately 30 miles southeast of Nome. A search effort ensued, and the wreckage was located the following day on a drifting ice floe. Recovery operations were challenging due to the ice floe’s movement and impending severe weather, including snow and winds up to 45 mph.
**Victims and Community Impact**
Among the deceased were Rhone Baumgartner and Kameron Hartvigson, who had traveled to Unalakleet to service a heat recovery system essential for the community’s water plant. Their loss, along with the others, deeply affected communities across Alaska. David Beveridge, vice president of environmental health and engineering for the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium, remarked that the loss would be felt statewide.
The pilot, 34-year-old Chad Antill of Nome, was also among the victims. The remaining passengers ranged in age from 30 to 58. The crash prompted an outpouring of grief and support from Alaskan communities. U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski expressed the difficulty in accepting the reality of the loss, and Nome Mayor John Handeland emphasized the community’s strength in coming together during such challenging times.
**Investigation and Findings**
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) initiated an investigation into the crash. A preliminary report released on March 19, 2025, revealed that the aircraft took off with a weight of 9,865 pounds, exceeding the limit by 1,058 pounds in icing conditions and over 800 pounds in regular conditions. Additionally, icing was discovered on the aircraft’s tail. NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy stated that the investigation was in its preliminary stages, with the goal of improving safety in Alaska and nationwide.
**Community Response and Support**
In the aftermath of the crash, Bering Air established a phone line to provide updates and emotional support to those with loved ones on board. The company requested privacy for the affected families and expressed a commitment to supporting authorities in the investigation. Communities like Unalakleet and Nome, though small, demonstrated resilience and unity, coming together to support each other through the grieving process.
**Conclusion**
The tragic crash of Bering Air Flight 445 serves as a somber reminder of the inherent risks associated with aviation, particularly in challenging Alaskan environments. The incident has prompted a thorough investigation to uncover contributing factors and implement measures to enhance future safety. The Alaskan community’s response highlights the strength and solidarity that emerge in the face of such profound loss.
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