Accident Details
On March 24, 2008, at approximately 1345 eastern daylight time, a Mooney M20C, registration N2943L, operated by a private individual under 14 CFR Part 91, experienced an in-flight breakup off the shore of Grand Bahamas, Bahamas. The airplane was substantially damaged. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan was filed. The private pilot and passenger sustained fatal injuries. The flight originated from Grand Bahama International Airport (MYGF), Freeport, Grand Bahamas, at 1319, en route to Port St Lucie County International Airport, Fort Pierce, Florida.
Witness Account
According to Freeport Approach Control personnel, the pilot did not communicate with them after departure, and no MAYDAY transmissions were received. A fisherman approximately 8 miles west of Grand Bahama Island reported hearing a loud noise that he initially thought was thunder. Upon looking up, he saw what appeared to be an airplane engine falling from the sky, which then exploded upon hitting the water. He also observed several other pieces, which he believed to be an aircraft wing and other debris, falling from the sky. He maneuvered his boat toward the location but found only floating debris.
Investigation
The investigation is under the jurisdiction of the Government of the Bahamas. The report is for information purposes only and contains only information obtained or released by the Bahamian Government. Further information may be obtained from the Flight Standards Inspectorate, Civil Aviation Department, Nassau International Airport.