A pilot who departed from Sebastian Municipal Airport last Sunday was found dead inside his small plane on Thursday in Marsh Harbour, Bahamas.
A private search and rescue team located the crash site approximately 2.5 miles short of the intended runway, with the aircraft upright in the marsh.
Authorities confirmed the pilot died on impact.
After the U.S. Coast Guard suspended its search on Wednesday, the pilot’s wife hired a private rescue team to find her husband.
Chris Moore, a 59-year-old retired engineer with nine years of piloting experience, was a frequent flyer of the Sebastian-to-Bahamas route. At the time of the accident, he was operating a small Bristell Aircraft.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued an alert after a single-engine BRM Aero Bristell lost its identification signal. The U.S. Coast Guard initiated a search and rescue operation following a report of the missing aircraft early Sunday morning. Aircrews scoured approximately 1,760 square miles but found no trace of the plane.
On Sunday evening, the Royal Bahamas Defense Force assumed command of the investigation, conducting its search the following morning. No further assistance was requested from the Coast Guard.
Marsh Harbour is a popular destination for pilots because it combines the allure of a tropical paradise with practical aviation amenities.
The area is renowned for its world-class fishing and boating opportunities. Many pilots are also avid boaters, making boating convenient for accessing these activities.
Marsh Harbour has a well-developed airport infrastructure, making it a convenient stop for pilots traveling throughout the Caribbean. It offers fuel, customs, and immigration services, as well as various ground-handling options.
Many private islands and exclusive resorts are accessible only by air, and Marsh Harbour is a gateway to these destinations.
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