What happened
On July 5, 2021, at approximately 3:45 PM EDT, an IAI Westwind 1124A, registered as N790JR, was involved in an accident during the departure phase at Treasure Cay International Airport in the Bahamas. The aircraft departed from runway 32, but failed to gain sufficient altitude. During its initial climb, the aircraft struck airport lighting equipment and several trees at the end of the runway.
As the aircraft continued its path, it left a trail of debris and aviation fuel. The aircraft eventually struck a small mound, causing it to spin, collide with more trees, and break apart. The impact triggered a large fire that consumed the wreckage. Because the airport lacked on-site emergency services, fire trucks were dispatched from the local town. However, the lack of an access road prevented the responders from reaching the site, and the fire burned until it was partially mitigated by rainfall.
Findings
An investigation involving the AAIA and CAA-B determined that the aircraft was traveling at full power but was unable to generate necessary lift. Evidence from ground scars, damaged lighting fixtures, and tree impacts suggests the aircraft was flying only 2 to 5 feet above the surface during its failed climb. The crew consisted of two individuals. While the flight plan indicated a destination of Nassau, local reports suggested a possible change in plans to visit Marsh Harbor for refueling.