Engine failure leads to seawater crash near Belize City

No fatalities • Belize City-Philip S. W. Goldson, Belize • Flight

A single-engine aircraft experienced an engine failure during a short flight in Belize, resulting in an impact with the sea and minor injuries to all five occupants.

What happened

A flight departing from Belize City-Sir Barry Bowen Municipal Airport toward Belize City-Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport experienced a critical mechanical failure during its transit. While the aircraft was cruising along the coastline, the engine ceased functioning. In response to the loss of power, the pilot initiated a descent to lower the altitude.

During the emergency descent, the pilot attempted to perform an emergency landing on a nearby beach. However, the aircraft struck the water before reaching land. The impact caused the airframe to break into two separate pieces. The aircraft eventually settled in approximately two feet of water.

Outcomes

There were five people on board at the time of the accident, including the pilot and four US citizens. All five occupants managed to exit the wreckage and escaped the scene with minor injuries.

Probable cause

The engine failed while the aircraft was in the cruise phase of flight.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2008-09-07 Cessna 208B Grand Caravan accident near Belize City-Philip S. W. Goldson, Belize?

A single-engine aircraft experienced an engine failure during a short flight in Belize, resulting in an impact with the sea and minor injuries to all five occupants.

Were there any fatalities in the 2008-09-07 Cessna 208B Grand Caravan accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2008-09-07 involved a Cessna 208B Grand Caravan, registration V3-HFQ, operated by Tropic Air (Belize), at Belize City-Philip S. W. Goldson, Belize.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The engine failed while the aircraft was in the cruise phase of flight.

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