On October 16, 2023, a Cessna 208B Grand Caravan (registration V3-HIN) operated by Maya Island Air was involved in an aviation accident near Placencia, Belize during takeoff. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Since this accident is considered to be an illegal activity, there are no safety lessons expected to be learnt from this occurrence. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A single-engine airplane, stolen from Placencia Airport, collided with an electrical transformer and crashed into a wooded area after a night takeoff. Both occupants were killed and the aircraft was destroyed.
Accident Overview
A single-engine airplane parked at Placencia Airport was stolen by two individuals. The theft was apparently intended for illegal activities. The aircraft departed from runway 06 at night.
Sequence of Events
Shortly after takeoff, the airplane collided with an electrical transformer. Impact occurred approximately 900 metres past the departure end of runway 06. The aircraft subsequently crashed into a wooded area and burst into flames.
Aftermath
The airplane was totally destroyed by the impact and subsequent fire. Both occupants were killed in the accident.
Official Findings
The investigation determined that the accident resulted from illegal activity. As such, no safety lessons are expected to be derived from this occurrence.
Probable cause
Since this accident is considered to be an illegal activity, there are no safety lessons expected to be learnt from this occurrence.