Ten people died when a small plane crashed in the Bahamas on Saturday, the country's 53rd independence anniversary. The victims included nine passengers and the pilot.
The light aircraft, a Cessna 402 operated by Bahamas-based Flamingo Air, was en route from Lynden Pindling International Airport near Nassau to San Andros Airport when it reportedly encountered difficulties and crashed into bushes shortly before landing.
The Bahamas' Aircraft Accident Investigation Authority confirmed the incident. Prime Minister Philip Davis described the event as a tragedy that turned a day of celebration into one of mourning. Initially, he reported one survivor, but later confirmed that person had succumbed to their injuries.
The identities, ages, and names of those on board have not yet been released. The Ministry of Aviation has temporarily suspended Flamingo Air's air operator certificate as a precautionary safety measure. The ministry stated this action should not be interpreted as an adverse compliance finding against the airline.
This incident occurred amid other aviation events on Friday. Aviation Minister JoBeth Coleby-Davis reported that a separate plane had to return to Nassau after the pilot declared an issue. A fire broke out on that aircraft once it landed and its passengers had disembarked safely.
Flamingo Air has stated it is cooperating with authorities and gathering details regarding the crash.