10 people aboard a Flamingo Air flight died in a crash off North Andros, Bahamas, on Friday. The Bahamas Musicians and Entertainers Union confirmed that the victims included several entertainers, specifically members of The Pond Band and a DJ. The Bahamian government has since suspended the airline’s operating certificate pending an investigation.
Details of the North Andros Plane Crash
The aircraft departed from Lynden Pindling International Airport in Nassau and was en route to San Andros when it went down in the waters west of the capital. According to the Bahamian Aircraft Accident Investigation Authority, the crash occurred on Friday, resulting in 10 fatalities.
The Bahamas Musicians and Entertainers Union issued a statement on X, noting that the loss of the musicians and the DJ represents a significant blow to the local cultural community. The union described the victims as talented individuals whose artistry had long enriched the Bahamian arts scene.
Regulatory Response and Flamingo Air Investigation
Following the incident, the Bahamas Ministry of Energy, Utilities and Aviation moved to temporarily ground all Flamingo Air flights. Minister JoBeth Coleby-Davis announced the suspension of the carrier’s air operator certificate, characterizing the move as a necessary precautionary measure to ensure public safety while the crash remains under investigation.
The suspension is linked to two separate safety incidents involving the airline that took place on Friday. Minister Coleby-Davis confirmed that earlier in the day, another Flamingo Air flight experienced mechanical issues while traveling to Mayaguana. After the pilot reported a concern and returned to Nassau, the aircraft caught fire on the ground after passengers had successfully deboarded. Authorities are currently reviewing both incidents to determine the operational status of the airline moving forward.
Timeline of Events
- Friday Morning: A Flamingo Air flight en route to Mayaguana returns to Nassau due to a pilot-reported concern; the plane subsequently catches fire after landing.
- Friday: A second Flamingo Air flight, carrying 10 people, crashes in North Andros, resulting in the death of all on board.
- Saturday: The Bahamas Musicians and Entertainers Union publicly identifies the loss of local artists, including members of The Pond Band and a DJ.
- Ongoing: The Bahamian government maintains a suspension of Flamingo Air’s certificate while the Aircraft Accident Investigation Authority conducts a formal inquiry.
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