What happened
On the morning of the incident, the pilot requested a weather update prior to departure. The initial briefing indicated that visual flight rules (VFR) conditions were expected along the intended route, though some areas might experience marginal weather. However, a subsequent update received at 0704 akdt indicated that weather conditions at the destination of Cantwell had deteriorated to instrument flight rules (IFR).
At 0731 akdt, the aircraft, a company VFR flight, departed from Anchorage International. Following takeoff, all radio contact with the aircraft ceased. The flight was unable to reach its intended destination in Cantwell. Despite an intensive search operation conducted over the area, no wreckage or evidence regarding the fate of the occupants was discovered.
Findings
- The official investigation into the disappearance concluded that the reason for the occurrence remains undetermined.
- There were zero survivors and no trace of the aircraft found during the search efforts.