Synopsis
On 12 September 2024, a Piper PA-23-250 aircraft with United States registration N555MH departed Lynden Pindling International Airport (MYNN), Nassau, Bahamas, at approximately 1:57 pm local time. The flight, operating under visual flight rules (VFR), was destined for San Andros Airport (MYAN) on Andros Island. Six persons were on board: one pilot and five passengers.
Sequence of Events
The pilot made multiple approach attempts to runway 12 at MYAN but encountered poor visibility. Runway lights were activated at 2:20 pm following a request via UNICOM frequency 122.800 MHz. Between 2:12 and 2:24 pm, the pilot conducted low-altitude maneuvering near MYAN, descending to approximately 600 feet, before deciding to return to MYNN due to deteriorating weather and poor visibility.
Simultaneously, another aircraft (WMA125, a Cessna 208) en route to MYAN reported encountering a “wall of weather” and subsequently diverted to an alternate destination.
N555MH requested priority landing at MYNN, citing engine issues, and declared an emergency minutes later after observing a loss of power to both engines. The pilot indicated his intent to ditch the aircraft in waters near Nygard Cay. The aircraft was ditched at coordinates 25° 2'53.74"N 77°35'45.92"W, approximately 6.5 nautical miles west of MYNN.
Injuries and Damage
Of the six occupants, two were later pronounced deceased on scene: an 87-year-old male and a 43-year-old female. The remaining four individuals (three passengers and one crew member) sustained injuries of varying degree. The aircraft was substantially damaged.
Search and Rescue
Search and rescue operations were initiated. A Flamingo Air aircraft (C6-OFM) flying in the vicinity visually acquired the ditching location. Response from the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF) and Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) followed. All six occupants were recovered.
Investigation
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Authority (AAIA) of the Bahamas conducted the investigation in accordance with Annex 13 to the Convention on International Civil Aviation. The investigation aimed to determine the probable cause and to issue safety recommendations. No probable cause has been stated in the released summary.