Accident Overview
On January 7, 2012, at approximately 1324 eastern standard time, a Cirrus Design Corp. SR22, registration N723EA, operated by M&W Aviation LLC, descended into water near Andros Island, Bahamas, following the deployment of the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS). The airplane was on a 14 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 91 personal flight from Kendall-Tamiami Executive Airport (TMB), Miami, Florida, to Toussaint Louverture International Airport (MTPP), Port-au-Prince, Haiti. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and a visual flight rules (VFR) flight plan was filed. The flight originated from TMB at approximately 1217.
Pilot Actions and Events
The pilot reported that the day before the accident, the airplane had been test flown by another pilot following an annual inspection that involved extensive maintenance. On the accident date, prior to the flight, the pilot test flew the airplane in the traffic pattern at TMB and reported no discrepancies.
During the flight, the airplane climbed uneventfully to 9,500 feet. About 45 minutes into the flight, the oil pressure began to drop from the mid 40 psi range into the 30 psi range. The pilot decided to divert to Andros Island, advised air traffic control of the situation, and later declared an emergency. He reported that the oil pressure decreased to zero, and the engine, which had been running smoothly, began to shake and then seized. The pilot trimmed the airplane for best glide speed but, after recognizing that he was unable to reach Andros Island, deployed the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS) when the airplane was at about 2,200 feet. The parachute deployed, and the airplane descended to the water, hitting flat and firmly.
Occupant Safety and Rescue
Both occupants were wearing inflatable life jackets. They evacuated the airplane, boarded a life raft, and were rescued. The airplane sustained substantial damage, while the certificated commercial pilot and one passenger were not injured.
Investigation
The investigation is under the jurisdiction of the Government of the Bahamas. Further information may be obtained from the Manager of Flight Standards, Bahamas. This report is for information purposes only and contains only information released by or obtained from the Bahamian Government.
Damage and Injuries
The airplane sustained substantial damage. The pilot and passenger were not injured.