Eight Killed in Alaska Charter Plane Crash Near Remote Military Radar Site

A chartered Cessna 441 aircraft crashed in western Alaska, killing all eight people aboard during an attempted landing at a remote military facility.

The accident occurred on August 20, 2026, at the Cape Newenham Long Range Radar Site Airport, a remote location in western Alaska.

The aircraft was reportedly attempting to land in heavy fog when the pilot was forced to make a second approach. The plane crashed approximately one-third of a mile from the runway.

All eight people aboard, including two pilots and six passengers, died in the crash.

By August 24, authorities had identified three of the victims as Sabrina Hansen, Hayden Scalis, and U.S. Air Force 2nd Lt. Leah Borsich, 23. The group had been carrying out work connected to system maintenance and inspection at the radar site.

The crash occurred in a remote area, creating additional challenges for recovery and investigation efforts.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating the accident. Investigators are expected to examine the aircraft, weather conditions, flight path, and circumstances surrounding the failed landing attempt to determine what caused the deadly crash.

Source: People Magazine