Shortly after takeoff from Fairbanks International Airport at 9:55 a.m. on Tuesday, a Douglas DC-4 aircraft crashed into the Tanana River. The Alaska State Troopers reported that the plane plunged into the river approximately 7 miles south of the airport and subsequently slid up a steep riverbank, where it caught fire. A search and rescue operation ensued, but as of Tuesday afternoon, no survivors had been discovered.
Three National Transportation Safety Board investigators are scheduled to arrive at the crash site on Tuesday afternoon to initiate an investigation. Details regarding the operating company of the aircraft at the time of the incident remain limited.
Mike Emers, the owner of Rosie Creek Farm southwest of Fairbanks, described witnessing the plane engulfed in flames as it flew over his property shortly before 10 a.m. on Tuesday. He attempted to contact emergency services but encountered difficulties connecting. Emers subsequently heard an explosion and then a crash. He alerted the authorities and rushed towards the rising column of smoke, accompanied by his teenage son and a neighbor.
The aircraft crashed at the base of a wooded bluff along the river, and the spreading fire threatened stands of black and white spruce. Emers and his son attempted to combat the flames with their sweatshirts. They observed a large debris field, including what appeared to be aircraft parts. Trooper helicopters quickly arrived at the scene.
The Alaska State Troopers responded to the incident along with numerous other agencies, including the University of Alaska Police, Fairbanks Airport Police and Fire, the Fairbanks Police Department, and local volunteer fire departments. The public was advised to steer clear of the area.
A spokesman for Fairbanks International Airport acknowledged the ongoing situation and emphasized that the Alaska State Troopers are spearheading the response efforts with their full cooperation.
The National Transportation Safety Board described the aircraft as a “large transport category airplane” with four reciprocating piston engines. The investigation into the crash is currently underway with further updates expected in due course.
