In the Bahamas, a tragic aviation crisis unfolded over the weekend, triggered by a plane crash in North Andros and another incident involving a plane catching fire. In response to these events, the government decided to halt local airline operations and initiate a federal safety investigation.
On Friday, shortly after 1 PM local time, a Bahamian-registered Cessna 402 took off from Nassau’s Linden Pindling International Airport, en route to San Andros Airport. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Agency (AAIA) reported that the aircraft “encountered difficulties,” leading to it crashing into some bushes upon landing.
First responders, including the Royal Bahamas Police and medical personnel, rushed to the scene of the crash in the dense underbrush. According to the Bahamas Musicians and Entertainers Union, all ten individuals on board died in the crash. Among the victims were notable members of “The Pond Band” and a local DJ, whose contributions “enriched the cultural fabric of the Bahamas,” the union noted.
Bahamian Prime Minister Philip Brave Davis shared that there was one survivor who had been rescued from the wreckage. He expressed his condolences, saying, “Ann and I are praying for the family facing unbearable grief at this time.” He further mentioned his hopes for the recovery and care of the survivor.
The identities of those who lost their lives in the crash have not yet been disclosed. Interestingly, the AAIA’s preliminary report initially indicated seven people were on board, but officials are still verifying the passenger list.
Just hours before this tragic incident, a Flamingo flight bound for Mayaguana had to return to Nassau shortly after takeoff due to reported issues from the pilot. Fortunately, the plane landed safely, but it later caught fire while on the runway.
In light of these events, the Bahamas Civil Aviation Authority (CAAB) temporarily suspended Flamingo Airlines’ flight operator license as a precaution. Officials emphasized that this suspension should not be interpreted as a compliance violation against the airline.
Currently, AAIA investigators and CAAB inspectors are on the ground in northern Andros, working diligently to uncover the reasons behind the Cessna 402 crash.
Flamingo Airlines has yet to respond to inquiries regarding these incidents.
