Ten people died after a Flamingo Air Cessna 402 crashed in North Andros, Bahamas, on July 10, according to the Aircraft Accident Investigation Authority (AAIA). The crash occurred shortly after 1 p.m. local time following a departure from Lynden Pindling International Airport in Nassau.
Flamingo Air Cessna 402 Crashes in North Andros
A Cessna 402, registered as C6-FLX, crashed into bushes prior to landing on Andros Island, the largest island in the Bahamas. The AAIA reported that the aircraft encountered difficulties during its flight from Nassau to San Andros Airport. While the AAIA initially reported seven fatalities, Bahamian Prime Minister Philip Brave Davis later confirmed that 10 people were on board. One survivor initially remained, but Police Commissioner Shanta Knowles confirmed that person later died.
The accident coincided with the country’s Independence Day. Prime Minister Davis stated on X that the families affected deserve “compassion, privacy, and support” as the official investigation proceeds.
Did you know? The AAIA is investigating aircraft accidents in the Bahamas to determine the cause and prevent future occurrences.
Bahamian Music Community Mourns Loss of Artists
The crash claimed the lives of several figures in the local arts scene. According to a statement from the Bahamas Musicians and Entertainers Union on X, local musicians and a DJ were among the deceased. Specifically, the union identified members of The Pond Band as victims.
The union described the victims as “talented and vibrant members of our entertainment community” whose artistry enriched the cultural fabric of the Bahamas. The identities of all victims have not been released to the public.
Safety Measures and Suspension of Flamingo Air
The crash on July 10 was followed by another incident involving the same carrier. Bahamian Minister JoBeth Coleby-Davis reported that a second Flamingo Air flight, bound for Mayaguana, had to return to Nassau after the pilot reported a concern. After passengers exited the aircraft, the plane caught fire. No injuries were reported in the second incident.
Following these two events, the Ministry of Energy, Utilities and Aviation announced via Facebook that the Civil Aviation Authority Bahamas has “temporarily suspended” Flamingo Air’s Air Operator Certificate. The Ministry of Energy, Utilities and Aviation characterized this as a “precautionary safety measure” while the AAIA investigates the cause of the fatal crash.
Comparison of July 10 and July 13 Incidents
| Detail | July 10 Crash | July 13 Incident |
|---|---|---|
| Aircraft | Cessna 402 (C6-FLX) | Unspecified Flamingo Air plane |
| Destination | San Andros Airport | Mayaguana |
| Outcome | 10 fatalities | Plane fire; no injuries |
Investigation and Public Assistance
The exact cause of the Cessna 402 crash remained under investigation as of Monday, July 13. The Royal Bahamas Police Force and emergency medical personnel assisted in the initial response at the North Andros site.
The AAIA is seeking information from anyone who may have witnessed the accident. Individuals can contact the authority at 242-376-8334 or via email at [email protected].
Frequently Asked Questions
How many people died in the Flamingo Air crash?
Ten people died, according to Bahamian Prime Minister Philip Brave Davis and Police Commissioner Shanta Knowles.
Where did the plane crash?
The aircraft crashed into bushes in North Andros, Bahamas, while en route to San Andros Airport.
Is Flamingo Air still operating?
The Civil Aviation Authority Bahamas has temporarily suspended the airline’s Air Operator Certificate as a safety precaution, according to the Ministry of Energy, Utilities and Aviation.
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