In brief
A small aircraft operated by Flamingo Air crashed near Nassau, killing eight passengers and the pilot. The incident happened on the Bahamas' 53rd independence day, prompting a national mourning. The Ministry of Aviation temporarily suspended Flamingo Air's operator certificate following two earlier safety incidents. Authorities are investigating and the airline has pledged cooperation.
Eight passengers and the pilot died in a Cessna 402 aircraft that crashed into a bush on a short flight from Lynden Pindling International Airport to San Andros Airport.
The accident occurred on the Bahamas' 53rd independence day, a day that became one of mourning. Prime Minister Philip Davis said it had become a 'day of mourning'.
The Atlantic region is shaken as the deceased have not been released details, including age and names.
Flamingo Air, a Bahamas‑based airline, had its air operator certificate temporarily suspended by the Ministry of Aviation as a precautionary safety measure. The ministry clarified the suspension was not a penalty but a safety precaution following two incidents earlier that day.
A report noted a fire broke out on board after the plane had briefly returned to Nassau due to a reported issue. Passengers had disembarked when the fire was extinguished.
Flamingo Air has pledged cooperation with authorities while details are gathered. The airline’s spokesperson noted they are working closely with investigators.
