Multiple individuals have tragically lost their lives in a plane crash in the Bahamas, resulting in the deaths of 10 passengers and leading to the temporary suspension of Flamingo Air flights by the government.
The fatal incident occurred in North Andros, situated in the waters to the west of Nassau, the capital of the archipelago.
Initially, Bahamian Prime Minister Philip Brave Davis reported one survivor, but later clarified during a press briefing that the survivor had succumbed to their injuries. The identities of the victims have not been disclosed publicly.
Expressing deep sorrow, Prime Minister Davis stated that the day, which was meant to mark the Bahamas’ 53rd independence anniversary, had turned into a day of mourning. He extended heartfelt condolences to all families affected by the tragic news of their loved ones not returning home.
According to the Bahamian Aircraft Accident Investigation Authority, the ill-fated Cessna 402 aircraft, registered in the Bahamas, took off from Lynden Pindling International Airport in Nassau and was en route to San Andros when the crash occurred.
Following two safety incidents on Friday, the Ministry of Energy, Utilities, and Aviation announced the suspension of Flamingo Air’s air operator certificate as a precautionary measure while investigations into the crash’s cause are ongoing.
During the press conference, Energy, Utilities, and Aviation Minister JoBeth Coleby-Davis disclosed that the first incident involved a Flamingo Air plane bound for Mayaguana, which experienced a pilot-reported issue and returned to Nassau. Subsequently, upon landing and passenger disembarkation, the plane caught fire, prompting further investigation into the incident.
