Bahamian authorities confirmed that 10 people died after a small passenger aircraft crashed on one of the country's islands on the nation’s 53rd independence day. The aircraft, a Cessna 402, went down after departing Lynden Pindling International Airport bound for San Andros Airport, officials said.
Prime Minister Philip Davis expressed the nation's shock and grief at a briefing, noting that what began as a day of celebration had become a day of mourning. In his remarks, he said:
"Once again, a chapter in our nation’s story has been marked by tragedy. Today is a day of celebration but it has become a day of mourning."
The Bahamian Aircraft Accident Investigation Authority reported the aircraft "reportedly encountered difficulties" before it came down into bushes. The crash occurred at about 1:00 p.m. EDT, according to the authority.
Police Commissioner Shanta Knowles provided details about those on board, saying there were nine passengers and one pilot. She added that one person initially survived the impact but later died, bringing the confirmed death toll to 10.
The flight was operated by Flamingo Air, a Bahamas-based carrier. Following the crash, the Ministry of Transport announced a suspension of the airline’s air operator certificate as a precautionary safety measure while the incident is reviewed.
Flamingo Air did not immediately respond to external requests for comment. To local media, the airline said it was gathering details and would cooperate with relevant authorities as the investigation proceeds.
Investigation and regulatory actions are now underway. The Accident Investigation Authority is leading inquiries into the circumstances that led to the aircraft encountering trouble after takeoff, and the Transport Ministry's suspension of the operator certificate is intended as a precaution while that inquiry continues.
With details still being collected, officials have limited public information about the cause of the crash. Authorities have confirmed the timeline - departure from Lynden Pindling International Airport, an intended flight to San Andros Airport, and the reported difficulties prior to impact in vegetated terrain.
As the investigation advances, agencies involved are expected to provide updates on findings and any implications for domestic air operations.