Plane crashes 20 minutes into flight, killing 10 in Bahamas

A tragic plane crash in the Bahamas claimed the lives of ten people on Friday, just before 1 p.m. local time. The small aircraft, operated by Flamingo Air, was en route from Lynden Pindling International Airport in Nassau to San Andros Airport, a journey of only 64 kilometers that should have taken approximately 20 minutes.

According to the Bahamas Aircraft Accident Investigation Authority, the plane reportedly encountered difficulties shortly after takeoff and crashed into a wooded area before reaching its destination. Video footage from the scene showed smoking wreckage scattered across the forest.

The incident cast a somber shadow over the Bahamas' 53rd Independence Day celebrations. Prime Minister Philip Brave Davis described the day as one of "deep sorrow," extending condolences to the families of the victims. Initially, there was a report of one survivor, but this was later confirmed to be incorrect as the individual succumbed to their injuries.

Among the deceased were several musicians and a DJ, as confirmed by the Bahamas Musicians and Entertainers Union. In response to the tragedy, the government has temporarily suspended all flight operations of Flamingo Air. The aircraft involved has been identified as a Cessna 402 with Bahamian registration number C6-FLX.

“

We gather under a cloud of profound sadness. To each family receiving the heartbreaking news that their loved ones will not return home, we extend our deepest condolences.