Ten people died after a small plane crashed this Friday in North Andros, in the Bahamas, while making a domestic flight of approximately 20 minutes between Nassau and the island of Andros.

The accident occurred shortly before 1:00 p.m., according to the Bahamas Air Accident Investigation Authority. The aircraft, operated by Flamingo Air, had taken off from Lynden Pindling International Airport bound for San Andros Airport, located about 40 miles away.

According to authorities, the plane “experienced difficulties” as it approached its destination and ended up crashing into vegetation before landing.

Videos released after the accident show the remains of the aircraft scattered in a wooded area, while smoke was coming out of the fuselage.

The only survivor died after the accident

Initially, the Prime Minister of the Bahamas, Philip Brave Davis, reported that one person had survived the impact. However, hours later he confirmed that he also died from his injuries.

“We meet under a cloud of deep pain,” said the president during events marking the 53rd anniversary of the country's independence.

“To all the families who have received the devastating news that a loved one will not return home, we offer our sincere condolences,” he added.

The Bahamas Police confirmed that it already has a list of the victims, although their identities will not be revealed until the official notification process to next of kin is completed.

They investigate the causes of the accident

The accident aircraft was identified as a Cessna 402 with registration C6-FLX, registered in the Bahamas and owned by Flamingo Air, a company that confirmed the accident and assured that it will fully collaborate with the authorities in charge of the investigation.

Specialized teams were sent to North Andros to determine what caused the plane to crash.

Authorities also reported that members of the Bahamian musical group Da Pond Band were scheduled to board that flight.

Flamingo Air operations are preventively suspended

Following the accident, the Bahamas Ministry of Energy, Public Utilities and Aviation announced the temporary suspension of Flamingo Air's air operator certificate as a preventive safety measure.

The government clarified that the decision does not constitute a sanction against the company, but rather a precautionary action while the investigations progress.

Authorities further explained that the suspension is also related to a second incident that occurred that same day.

According to Minister Jobeth Coleby-Davis, another Flamingo Air aircraft covering a route to Mayaguana returned to Nassau after the pilot reported a problem during the flight. Once all the passengers were evacuated, the plane caught fire on the ground, although in that case there were no injuries or fatalities.

Investigations into both incidents continue.