A desperate search-and-rescue operation is underway off the coast of Nantucket after a medical transport aircraft carrying six people disappeared while flying from Bermuda to Boston.
The Gulfstream G100, operated by Latitude Air Ambulance, departed L.F. Wade International Airport in Bermuda at around 12:41 a.m. on Saturday, October 3, bound for Boston Logan International Airport.
According to FlightAware data, the aircraft experienced a dramatic descent at approximately 1:04 a.m., dropping from 23,500 feet to 11,000 feet in just three minutes. The aircraft subsequently lost contact with the Federal Aviation Administration before its scheduled arrival at 1:25 a.m.
There were six people on board, including four crew members and two passengers. Reports indicate that four were Canadian nationals and two were from Bermuda.
The FAA issued a search-and-rescue alert at approximately 1:20 a.m. and coordinated with the U.S. Coast Guard to locate the missing aircraft.
The Coast Guard launched an extensive search operation offshore of Nantucket, deploying HC-144 aircraft, an MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter, an HC-130 Hercules aircraft, a motor lifeboat and a fast-response cutter.
As search teams scour the Atlantic waters for the aircraft and possible wreckage, the fate of all six people remains unknown.
Latitude Air Ambulance expressed hope for a safe outcome, while airport authorities and officials extended their thoughts to those on board and their families.
What caused the aircraft’s sudden descent, and what happened after it lost contact? Those questions remain unanswered as the search continues.
