NASSAU, The Bahamas – The Bahamas Civil Aviation Authority has initiated comprehensive investigations into two alarming near-miss incidents involving American Airlines aircraft at Family Island airports, signaling potential systemic safety concerns at uncontrolled aerodromes. The probe follows formal advisories from US regulators warning of possible catastrophic outcomes.
The first emergency occurred on February 12 near Exuma International Airport when an approaching American Airlines flight executed abrupt evasive maneuvers to avoid a departing aircraft. The violent maneuver resulted in injuries to two flight attendants who required medical treatment at a local clinic and were subsequently placed on leave.
A second incident unfolded on February 24 at North Eleuthera Airport where an American Airlines jet awaiting takeoff clearance encountered another aircraft passing overhead while still positioned on the active runway.
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Authority issued a Serious Safety Concern notice indicating preliminary evidence suggests both incidents involved failures in proper radio communication protocols. At uncontrolled airports like these, pilots are required to continuously self-announce their positions on designated frequencies—a critical safety procedure that preliminary findings indicate may not have been followed.
Political response emerged as Debra Moxey Rolle, Free National Movement candidate for Exuma, highlighted broader infrastructure concerns referencing a recent incident where a medical evacuation flight couldn’t land due to runway lighting failure, resulting in a patient’s death. ‘When it comes to matters of safety and life, silence is not an option,’ Rolle stated, emphasizing the community’s dependence on reliable air access for medical emergencies and commerce.
The aviation authority maintains strict confidentiality regarding ongoing investigations, noting that premature disclosure could compromise investigative integrity. Officials confirmed that any identified safety breaches will trigger immediate corrective measures aligned with international aviation standards and regulatory mandates.