Occurrence
On 31 January 2022, at approximately 10:20 AM EST (1520 UTC), the Aircraft Accident Investigation Authority (AAIA) received notification from the Bahamas Air Navigation Services Authority (BANSA) air traffic control of a downed Piper Cherokee PA-32-300 aircraft with United States registration N1215H. The aircraft had departed Lynden Pindling International Airport (MYNN), Nassau, New Providence, Bahamas shortly after 10:00 AM en route to Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport (KFXE), Florida, USA with one person on board.
Sequence of Events
The pilot reported that after departure, while climbing through an altitude of 2,500 ft. AGL, the engine began to sputter. The pilot checked the fuel selector and confirmed it was appropriately selected to the main tank, and also checked the engine gauges but observed no indication of a malfunction. He then increased the fuel mixture but observed no improvement. The pilot contacted Nassau air traffic control to advise of the emergency and his intent to return to MYNN. An attempt was made to return to the field, but the aircraft crashed into waters approximately 8.76 NM west of MYNN.
Response and Injuries
The Royal Bahamas Defense Force (RBDF) and the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF) responded with marine assets to conduct search and rescue. They located the pilot and transported him to New Providence for medical attention. The pilot sustained minor injuries. The aircraft was lost to the ocean.
Investigation and Analysis
Due to the non-recovery of the aircraft’s airframe or engine, a comprehensive physical analysis could not be conducted. A thorough analysis of the airframe, engine, and propeller maintenance logs was undertaken to determine compliance with applicable regulations and manufacturer specifications. The documentation showed that the aircraft was kept and maintained in an airworthy condition according to regulations and specifications.
Weather at the time was visual meteorological conditions (VMC) and was deemed not a factor in this occurrence. The investigation was limited in scope; no safety recommendations or messages were issued in relation to this occurrence.