"No survivors": 8 people killed as chartered Cessna 441 plane crashes

This story has significance for readers across Kenya and beyond.

- A Cessna 441 chartered aircraft crashed at Cape Newenham Long Range Radar Site Airport, about 450 miles west-southwest of Anchorage

- All eight people on board the civilian-contracted aircraft perished in the crash, which occurred shortly after midday on August 20

- The FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board have opened an investigation, with the NTSB taking the lead

Amos Khaemba, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings over four years of experience covering politics and current affairs in Kenya.

Eight people died on Thursday, August 20, after a chartered Cessna 441 aircraft crashed at a remote military installation in western Alaska, the U.S. military's Alaskan Command confirmed.

According to CNN, the aircraft departed Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport bound for Cape Newenham before going down at approximately 12:15 p.m. local time at Cape Newenham Long Range Radar Site Airport, a facility located roughly 450 miles west-southwest of Anchorage. Everyone aboard perished.

The Federal Aviation Administration confirmed the departure and destination details, describing the stricken aircraft as a civilian-contracted plane.

Alaskan Command stated that the identities of the victims would be released 24 hours after their next of kin had been formally notified. No further details about those on board were shared by the military.

Cape Newenham Radar Site

The Cape Newenham facility is part of a broader network of remote radar installations operated under the Pacific Air Forces Regional Support Centre.

These sites carry out continuous monitoring of aircraft movements across Alaska's airspace and along its borders. Access to the airport is strictly restricted, with only military personnel and approved charter flights permitted to land there.

U.S. Air Force Lieutenant General Robert Davis, commander of Alaskan Command, the Alaskan North American Aerospace Defense Command Region and Eleventh Air Force, addressed the tragedy in a statement, calling it a profound blow to those connected to the mission.

"This is a devastating loss for our military family and the communities we serve," Davis said. "These individuals were dedicated professionals carrying out a vital mission in a demanding environment. Our absolute priority right now is providing unwavering support to their families, friends, and teammates during this devastating time."

Investigation under way

The cause of the crash has not yet been established. Both the FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board are set to conduct a joint investigation into the incident, with the NTSB confirmed as the lead agency.

Alaska Senator Lisa Murkowski extended her condolences following the crash, referencing her own history with the operator believed to be involved.

"I've traveled extensively with Security Aviation throughout Alaska, and have met many of their experienced pilots," Murkowski wrote on X. "I appreciate the U.S. Coast Guard, NTSB, Alaska State Troopers, and the Rescue Coordination Center for responding to the site. Alaska is praying for those on board, their loved ones, and the team at Security Aviation."

Source: TUKO.co.ke

Reporting originally appeared via TUKO. Read the full source for additional context.