On April 3, 1978, a Rockwell Aero Commander 560 (registration N343P) operated by Phoenix Aviation - USA was involved in an aviation accident near Nassau, Bahamas during landing or approach. 5 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft struck the water during an uncontrolled low-altitude pass. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
A twin-engine airplane crashed into the waters of Nassau harbor while on final approach to Nassau Airport, resulting in five fatalities.
What happened
During a flight originating from Florida, a twin engine airplane was performing its final approach toward Nassau Airport. During this phase of the flight, the aircraft experienced a sudden loss of altitude. The plane subsequently struck the surface of the Nassau harbor, where it ignited upon impact.
The crash resulted in the total destruction of the aircraft and caused damage to several nearby boats. There were five fatalities among the occupants of the plane, with no other injuries reported among persons on the ground or in other vessels.
Findings
Investigations into the accident concluded that the incident was the result of an uncontrolled collision with water occurring during a low pass.
Probable cause
The aircraft struck the water during an uncontrolled low-altitude pass.