Ten Die in Bahamas Cessna Crash Near San Andros Airport

Nine passengers and one pilot died when a Cessna 402 aircraft crashed into bushes near San Andros Airport in the Bahamas, The BBC reported. The plane, operated by Flamingo Air, was on a short flight from Lynden Pindling International Airport near Nassau when it encountered difficulties prior to landing. The crash took place on the day of the Bahamas' 53rd independence anniversary.

Prime Minister Philip Davis told a media conference that the day had shifted from celebration to mourning and that another chapter in the nation's story had been marked by tragedy. Davis initially reported one survivor but later confirmed that the individual had died from injuries sustained in the crash. Details on the ages and names of those on board have not been released.

The Ministry of Aviation temporarily suspended Flamingo Air's air operator certificate as a precautionary measure. The ministry stated that the action should not be viewed as an adverse compliance finding and noted two safety incidents involving the airline on Friday.

Aviation Minister JoBeth Coleby-Davis said one Flamingo Air plane had returned to Nassau after the pilot reported an issue earlier that day.

A fire broke out on board that aircraft after it landed and passengers had disembarked, according to CBS News reporting cited by The BBC. Flamingo Air said details were being gathered and that the airline was committed to cooperating with authorities.