On Thursday, a small aircraft carrying eight cruise ship passengers and their pilot was discovered crashed on a cliffside in Southeast Alaska, KTUU reports. All nine were reportedly killed in the crash.

In a statement, Holland America Line confirmed that the flight was sold as a sightseeing excursion for passengers on their MS Westerdam cruise ship.

“We are incredibly distressed by this situation, and our thoughts and prayers are with those on board the plane and their families,” said the Seattle-based cruise line. “Holland America Line is extending its full support to traveling companions of the guests involved.”

According to The Seattle Times, rescue personnel are currently on their way to the site of the crash.

UPDATE - 12:20 a.m.: NTSB Alaska Chief Clint Johnson has confirmed that all those on board the plane died. From the Associated Press:

Clint Johnson, head of the National Transportation Safety Board’s Alaska office, confirmed weather is preventing the recovery of bodies Thursday evening off a cliff about 20 miles northeast of Ketchikan.

Attempts to recover the bodies will resume Friday.

UPDATE - 12:05 a.m.: According to the Associated Press, federal officials say nine people died in the crash.

[Image via AP Images]