Kathmandu— Eight people were killed when a charter plane crashed at a remote radar site in western Alaska on Thursday evening, the United States military confirmed. The aircraft, a Cessna 441 operated by Anchorage-based Security Aviation, went down west of Cape Newenham LRRS Airport around 20:15 GMT. Rescuers arriving at the scene determined there were no survivors, and authorities are investigating the cause of the crash while notifying families of the victims.

Crash Details

The plane was a civilian-contracted Cessna 441, operated by Security Aviation, an air charter company based in Anchorage. The Federal Aviation Administration confirmed the aircraft crashed west of Cape Newenham LRRS Airport on Thursday at approximately 20:15 GMT. Rescuers who reached the crash site confirmed that all eight individuals onboard perished.

Victims and Investigation

The Alaskan Command stated that two pilots and six passengers were aboard the aircraft. Authorities have not yet released details regarding the purpose of their visit to the radar site, which is used to monitor air traffic within Alaskan airspace. The command has initiated an investigation into the crash and plans to release the names of those killed once family members have been notified.

Military Response

Alaskan Command chief Robert Davis expressed deep sorrow over the incident. “This is a devastating loss for our military family and the communities we serve,” he said, adding that the individuals were dedicated professionals performing an important task in challenging conditions.

The National Transportation Safety Board’s Alaska region chief, Clint Johnson, confirmed earlier on Thursday evening the number of people onboard. The investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.