Occurrence Summary
On February 8, 2023, at approximately 12:50 PM local time, a Piper Aztec PA-23-250 with United States registration N5982Y was involved in a serious incident after takeoff from Lynden Pindling International Airport (MYNN), Nassau, Bahamas. The aircraft, manufactured in 1966 (serial number 27-3155), was powered by two Lycoming TIO-540 series engines. It was operating under a private operation with two persons on board—one crew and one passenger—and was en route to Rock Sound International Airport (MYER), Eleuthera, Bahamas.
Sequence of Events
According to the pilot's report, shortly after departure from MYNN, while at an altitude of approximately 2,000 feet above ground level, a hinge on the main cabin door broke loose. The force of the oncoming air exerted pressure on the now-unsecured door, causing it to blow open and eventually detach from the fuselage. The pilot contacted Air Traffic Control to advise of the situation and expressed intent to return to MYNN. ATC cleared the pilot to land on runway 28, and the aircraft landed successfully without further incident.
Damage and Injuries
The aircraft sustained damage to the right wing and main cabin door area. No injuries were reported.
Investigation Findings
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Authority (AAIA) of the Bahamas conducted the investigation. During the investigation, no evidence was provided to demonstrate that, preceding the event, the aircraft was maintained in accordance with applicable State of Registry (United States of America) regulations and requirements, specifically Title 14 US Code of Federal Aviation Regulations Part 91.409 Inspections (a) 1. As a result, the AAIA communicated a safety concern to the United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on February 21, 2023. The FAA advised that, as the State of Registry, it will enhance collaboration with the Bahamas via the Civil Aviation Authority of The Bahamas (CAA-B) to mitigate the future occurrence of such events.