Synopsis
On January 21, 2010, at approximately 7:37 a.m. local time (1237 UTC), a Piper Aztec PA-23-250 aircraft, registration N41JN, operated by Crystal Aviation Inc., ditched in the Northwest Channel off frozen cay in the Berry Islands, Bahamas. The aircraft had been en route from Great Harbour Cay International Airport to Lynden Pindling International Airport in Nassau.
History of the Flight
The flight departed Great Harbour Cay International Airport with a single pilot on board. While over the Northwest Passage, an electrical fire broke out in the cockpit. The pilot subsequently executed a ditching.
Injuries and Damage
The sole pilot sustained no injuries. The aircraft itself sustained damage from the ditching.
Aircraft Information
The aircraft was a Piper Aztec PA-23-250, registered in the United States as N41JN. The operator was Crystal Aviation Inc.
Fire
The incident involved an electrical fire originating in the cockpit.
Ditching and Recovery
The aircraft ditched in the Northwest Channel, Berry Islands. The wreckage was not recovered due to the depth of the water.
Investigation
The investigation was conducted by the Bahamas Department of Civil Aviation's Air Accident Investigation and Prevention Unit. No analysis could be presented at the time of the report as the aircraft was not retrieved. The report was adopted on July 20, 2010.