What happened
On the night of April 16, 2021, a Piper Navajo PA-31-3-50, registered as N827RD, departed South Bimini International Airport (MYBS) under instrument flight rules. The flight was destined for Opa Locka, Florida. Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft experienced a loss of control and struck the ocean surface in shallow waters, approximately 0.24 nautical miles from the end of Runway 10.
The impact and subsequent submersion of the aircraft resulted in one fatality and one serious injury. The passenger, who was the pilot's son, died from injuries sustained during the crash sequence. The pilot survived with serious injuries and was transported to Nassau for medical treatment. Local responders, including boaters and airport personnel using private vehicles, assisted in the immediate rescue efforts.
The investigation
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Authority (AAIA) examined the wreckage and the flight's circumstances. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft was properly registered in the United States and maintained in accordance with regulatory requirements. Both engines had undergone overhauls approximately one year prior to the accident.
Investigators noted that the aircraft was not equipped with a flight data recorder or cockpit voice recorder. During the inspection of the flight deck, investigators observed that the left and right fuel pump switches were in the "off" position, despite manufacturer procedures recommending these pumps be active during takeoff and landing. However, the investigation could not definitively determine if this was a cause of the accident.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was loss of control in flight leading to an uncontrolled collision with terrain.
- The engines showed no mechanical anomalies that would have prevented normal operation; observed damage was consistent with impact and saltwater immersion.
- Weather conditions were not a contributing factor.
- At the time of the accident, the airport's designated crash and rescue fire trucks were not operational, necessitating a response from personnel using private vehicles.
Safety action
- The AAIA recommended that the Airport Authority Family Island Airport Division ensure that adequate, functional firefighting equipment is available and maintained to match the airport's designation and the types of aircraft operating there.