Amid the celebrations of Independence Day, a shadow of grief fell over the Bahamas. On Friday, 10 people were killed in a plane crash in the country’s North Andros island. Following the incident, the government has temporarily suspended Flamingo Air’s operations.
The Cessna 402 model aircraft had taken off from Nassau’s Lynden Pindling International Airport bound for San Andros. Shortly afterward, the plane crashed in the North Andros area.
Initially it was reported that one passenger had been rescued alive, but later Bahamas Prime Minister Philip Brave Davis confirmed that the person also succumbed to injuries. As a result, all 10 people on board the aircraft died in the crash. The identities of the deceased have not yet been released.
In a press conference, PM Davis said, “The day of the country’s 53rd Independence Day celebrations has now turned into a day of mourning. We extend our deepest condolences to every family who has lost their loved ones forever.”
Meanwhile, as a precautionary measure until the cause of the accident is investigated, the Ministry of Energy, Public Service and Aviation has temporarily suspended Flamingo Air’s Air Operator Certificate.
According to the Ministry, another safety-related incident involving Flamingo Air also occurred on the same day. A flight bound for Mayaguana returned to Nassau after a technical problem was detected. After all passengers disembarked safely, a fire broke out on the aircraft.
The Bahamas Air Accident Investigation Authority has already launched investigations into both incidents. The exact cause of the crash is still not known.
