Tragedy struck when a vintage military plane, tasked with delivering heating oil to a remote Alaska Native village, crashed and burst into flames just outside Fairbanks, claiming the lives of both pilots.

According to Clint Johnson, head of the National Transportation Safety Board's Alaska regional office, one of the pilots reported a fire onboard shortly after takeoff and attempted to return to Fairbanks International Airport, ABC News reports.

However, contact with the aircraft was lost, leading to a fatal Alaska plane crash approximately 7 miles outside Fairbanks.

The plane, identified as a C54D-DC, a military version of the World War II-era Douglas DC-4, collided with a steep hill, slid down to the bank of the Tanana River, and erupted in flames.

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Recovery Efforts and Identification Challenges

Despite immediate efforts by Alaska State Troopers and first responders, no survivors were found at the crash site.

Recovery operations faced challenges due to thin ice and open water on the river, according to Anchorage Daily News.

Authorities deployed cadaver dogs to aid in the search, and partial remains were recovered for identification at the State Medical Examiner's Office in Anchorage.

The identities of the pilots have yet to be released.

Witnesses described harrowing scenes of the Alaska plane crash.

Mike Emers, who witnessed the tragedy from Rosie Creek Farm, recounted hearing an explosion and witnessing the aircraft engulfed in flames before it plummeted to the ground.

Another witness, Gary Contento, observed the plane's engine on fire before witnessing a series of explosions.

First responders arrived promptly at the scene, but the intensity of the fire and challenging terrain posed significant obstacles to recovery efforts.

Technical Details and Investigation

The vintage aircraft, loaded with 3,200 gallons of heating oil bound for Kobuk, departed Fairbanks shortly before the crash.

Air traffic control recordings revealed that the crew reported a fire onboard and requested an emergency landing before all communications ceased.

While the exact cause of the fire and subsequent Alaska plane crash remains under investigation, the NTSB dispatched investigators to the scene to gather crucial evidence.

Recovery of the wreckage, scattered over the river's thin ice, posed logistical challenges for investigators and search crews.

Ongoing Recovery and Environmental Assessment

Search efforts continued as crews worked to recover the pilots' remains and assess the extent of any environmental impact resulting from the crash.

Despite the challenges posed by the crash site's remote location and adverse weather conditions, responders remained committed to completing recovery operations and ensuring a thorough investigation into the tragic incident.

The crash underscored the logistical challenges of delivering essential supplies to remote Alaska villages,

Limited road access and geographical constraints necessitate alternative methods, such as air tankers, to transport fuel and supplies.

However, these operations are often hindered by weather conditions and logistical constraints, highlighting the complex logistical and safety considerations involved in serving Alaska's remote communities.

The C54D-DC, a military variant of the Douglas DC-4, played a significant role during World War II, including its involvement in the Berlin Airlift of 1948, USA Today noted.

Despite its historical significance, these aircraft are increasingly rare, and their continued operation poses unique challenges and safety considerations.

As recovery efforts continue, the Fairbanks community and aviation authorities are rallying to support the investigation and assist affected families.

With the wreckage strewn across the remote Alaska plane crash site, responders face a daunting task in piecing together the events leading to the tragic loss of life and ensuring the safety of airways in the future.

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Written by: Ross Key

WATCH: Pilot reported fire onboard plane before Alaska crash - From ABC 7 Chicago