What happened
Shortly after departing from South Bimini International Airport (MYBS) in the Bahamas, a private aircraft crashed into the water located at the end of the runway environment. The flight was scheduled to travel from Bimini to Opa Locka Airport (KOPF) in Florida, USA. The accident occurred during the night under instrument meteorological conditions.
Following the impact and the subsequent submersion of the aircraft, the pilot sustained serious injuries. After receiving initial medical care in South Bimini, the pilot was transported to Nassau for advanced treatment. The passenger, who was seated in the right seat of the aircraft, died due to injuries sustained during the initial impact and the sequence of the crash.
Findings
At the time of the accident, the pilot held a valid US commercial pilot certificate with multi-engine and instrument ratings, and maintained a valid medical certificate. The passenger also held a valid US private pilot certificate for single-engine land aircraft. While the weather was characterized by instrument meteorological conditions under a high-pressure system with no significant weather anticipated, the specific role of the passenger during the takeoff phase remains undetermined.