Nine passengers and a pilot died when a small plane crashed in the Bahamas, officials said.
The light aircraft was making a short trip from Lynden Pindling International Airport near capital Nassau to San Andros Airport when it reportedly encountered difficulties and crashed into bushes before landing, the country's Aircraft Accident Investigation Authority said.
The fatal crash occurred on the day of the Bahamas' 53rd independence anniversary.
Prime Minister Philip Davis described the day as a “day of mourning” despite the national celebration, saying it had once again marked a chapter of tragedy in the nation’s story.
He initially announced a survivor, but hours later confirmed that the sole survivor had died from injuries.
Details on the identities and ages of those on board have not yet been released.
The Cessna 402 aircraft was operated by Flamingo Air, a Bahamas-based airline. The Ministry of Aviation temporarily suspended the airline's air operator certificate as a precautionary safety measure.
The ministry clarified that the grounding should not be considered an adverse compliance action but a preventive safety measure following two incidents that occurred on Friday.
Aviation Minister JoBeth Coleby‑Davis reported that a previous flight had diverted back to Nassau when the pilot reported a problem. A fire broke out on board once the aircraft landed and passengers were disembarked, according to a report by the BBC and CBS News.
The BBC has contacted Flamingo Air for comment.
In response to local media, the airline stated: “At this time, details are being gathered, and we are committed to cooperating with the relevant authorities.”
