Multiple individuals have lost their lives following a plane crash in the Bahamas, resulting in the tragic deaths of 10 individuals and leading to the temporary suspension of Flamingo Air flights by the government.
The fatal incident occurred in North Andros, situated in waters just to the west of Nassau, the capital of the archipelago. Initially, Bahamian Prime Minister Philip Brave Davis had indicated that one person survived the crash; however, he later confirmed during a press briefing that the survivor had succumbed to their injuries. The identities of the victims have not been disclosed publicly.
Addressing the nation, Prime Minister Davis expressed deep sorrow, remarking that the day, which was meant to celebrate the Bahamas’ 53rd independence anniversary, had turned into a day of mourning. He extended heartfelt condolences to the families who had received the heartbreaking news of their loved ones not returning home.
The Bahamian Aircraft Accident Investigation Authority released a statement revealing that the ill-fated flight had departed from Lynden Pindling International Airport in Nassau and was en route to San Andros before the crash occurred. The aircraft involved was identified as a Cessna 402 registered in the Bahamas.
In response to the tragic incident and as a precautionary measure pending investigations into the crash’s cause, the Ministry of Energy, Utilities, and Aviation announced the temporary suspension of Flamingo Air’s air operator certificate. This decision followed two safety-related incidents that occurred on the same day.
During the press conference, Energy, Utilities, and Aviation Minister JoBeth Coleby-Davis detailed the first incident involving a Flamingo Air aircraft earlier that day, heading to Mayaguana. The pilot reported an issue and turned back to Nassau. Subsequently, after the plane landed and passengers disembarked, the aircraft caught fire. This incident is also part of the ongoing investigation.
