Recovery operation underway after fatal plane crash near Seward

Troopers have confirmed three bodies have been recovered from the plane wreckage. Only the pilot's identity has been released at this time.

A recovery operation is underway following a fatal plane crash near Little Johnstone bay Southeast of Seward. Alaska State Troopers received the report around 6 p.m. Friday.

A rescue team was sent to the scene. Before the arrival of the rescue team, a commercial helicopter from Seward landed at the scene and confirmed no signs of life, according to a trooper dispatch.

The pilot of the Helio Courier was identified as Kem Sibbitt, 63, of Fairbanks. Troopers report two adult passengers were believed to be aboard but have not been positively identified.

AST Helo 3 along with NTSB are currently at scene conducting an investigation and recovery of the victims.