No fatalities

Serious Injuries After Go-Around Error Leads to Ditching (N8111)

Walker's Cay, BahamasLanding (descent or approach)

On March 23, 1995, a Beechcraft E18 (registration N8111) operated by Caribe Air Cargo was involved in an aviation accident near Walker's Cay, Bahamas during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

After landing too far down the runway, the pilot initiated a go-around. The passenger accidentally raised the landing gear, causing the aircraft to sink onto its belly, strike propellers, catch fire, and eventually ditch offshore. Both occupants were seriously injured.

Accident Overview

A twin-engine aircraft experienced a serious accident following a wrong approach configuration at Walker's Cay Airfield. The aircraft landed too far down the runway. After touchdown, the pilot realized the mistake and initiated a go-around procedure.

Go-Around and Error

During the go-around, the pilot instructed the passenger seated in the right seat—a pilot-rated individual—to retract the flaps. Instead, the passenger inadvertently raised the landing gear. Consequently, the aircraft sank onto its belly, and both propellers struck the runway surface.

Fire and Ditching

The aircraft caught fire after the propeller strikes. The pilot elected to continue the go-around. During the initial climb, he ditched the aircraft a few dozen metres offshore.

Occupants and Damage

Both occupants were seriously injured. The aircraft was destroyed.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 23 Mar 1995 Beechcraft E18 accident near Walker's Cay, Bahamas?

After landing too far down the runway, the pilot initiated a go-around. The passenger accidentally raised the landing gear, causing the aircraft to sink onto its belly, strike propellers, catch fire, and eventually ditch offshore. Both occupants were seriously injured.

Were there any fatalities in the 23 Mar 1995 Beechcraft E18 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 23 Mar 1995 involved a Beechcraft E18, registration N8111, operated by Caribe Air Cargo, at Walker's Cay, Bahamas.