Updated Aug. 21, 2026, 2:08 a.m. ET
A small plane crashed at a remote military radar site in western Alaska on Aug. 20, killing all eight people on board, the U.S. military’s Alaskan Command said.
The Cessna 441 departed Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport and headed to Cape Newenham when it crashed at around 12:15 p.m. local time, according to the Federal Aviation Administration. The crash occurred at Cape Newenham Long Range Radar Site Airport, about 450 miles west-southwest of Anchorage, Alaska.
All eight people aboard the plane were killed, Alaskan Command told USA TODAY in a statement. The victims will be identified 24 hours after their next of kin has been notified.
Alaskan Command did not provide additional details about the victims and described the plane involved as a “civilian-contracted aircraft.”
According to Alaskan Command, the radar site is managed by the Pacific Air Forces Regional Support Center. It is part of a network of remote radar sites that monitor aircraft operating in Alaska’s airspace and along its borders.
“This is a devastating loss for our military family and the communities we serve,” said U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Robert Davis, commander of Alaskan Command, the Alaskan North American Aerospace Defense Command Region and Eleventh Air Force. “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.”
Sen. Lisa Murkowski took to social media and expressed her condolences after the crash in Cape Newenham.
“I appreciate the U.S. Coast Guard, NTSB, Alaska State Troopers, and the Rescue Coordination Center for responding to the site,” Murkowski said on X. “Alaska is praying for those on board, their loved ones, and the team at Security Aviation.”
The FAA and National Transportation Safety Board will investigate the crash. The FAA said the NTSB will lead the probe.
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