Small plane crash kills 10 in Bahamas, no survivors

Ten people, including nine passengers and a pilot, have died after a light aircraft crashed in the Bahamas, officials said.

The Cessna 402 aircraft, operated by Bahamas-based airline Flamingo Air, was on a short flight from Lynden Pindling International Airport near the capital, Nassau, to San Andros Airport when it "reportedly encountered difficulties" and crashed into bushes shortly before landing, the country’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Authority said in a statement, cited by the BBC.

The crash occurred on the day of the Bahamas’ 53rd independence anniversary.

"Today is a day of celebration, but it has become a day of mourning," Prime Minister Philip Davis told a media conference.

He added, "Once again, a chapter in our nation's story has been marked by tragedy."

Davis initially said there was one survivor, but confirmed hours later that the individual had died from their injuries, bringing the death toll to 10.

Authorities have not released details of those on board, including their identities or ages.

The Ministry of Aviation said it had temporarily suspended Flamingo Air’s air operator certificate "as a precautionary safety measure."

The ministry added that the grounding "should not be treated as an adverse compliance action against Flamingo Air."

Officials also noted there had been "two safety incidents" on Friday. Aviation Minister JoBeth Coleby-Davis said another aircraft had earlier returned to Nassau after the pilot reported a problem. A fire broke out on board after landing, once passengers had disembarked, according to CBS News.

The BBC said it had contacted Flamingo Air for comment. In remarks to local media, the airline said: "At this time, the details are being gathered, and we are committed to cooperating with the relevant authorities."

By Tamilla Hasanova