Overview
On March 24, 2008, a Mooney M20C aircraft, United States registration N2943L, departed Freeport International Airport, Grand Bahama, Bahamas, en route to Fort Pierce International Airport, Florida, USA. Shortly after departure, the aircraft experienced an in-flight breakup over waters off West End, Grand Bahama. The wreckage has not been located and is presumed destroyed. The private-rated pilot and a passenger have not been located and are presumed fatally injured.
Historical Context
The aircraft was registered to James M. Jones of Vero Beach, Florida, and was operated as a private flight. The accident occurred at approximately 1:45 p.m. local time (17:45 UTC) near Old Settlements Point, West End. The investigation, conducted by the Bahamas Department of Civil Aviation's Air Accident Investigation and Prevention Unit, was unable to recover the aircraft or determine further details. Due to the lack of additional information over a period of more than 24 months, the case was officially closed on April 26, 2010.
Investigation Findings
No flight recorders were installed or required. Meteorological information, communications, and other standard factual data were collected but did not yield a definitive cause for the breakup. The aircraft’s Certificate of Airworthiness and registration were valid at the time. The investigation concluded with no probable cause determined, as the wreckage was not located for examination. No contributing factors were identified.
Conclusion
The in-flight breakup of N2943L remains unexplained. The aircraft and occupants are missing, and no further information is expected.