Emergency Water Landing in Haiti
Two passengers and a pilot were forced to swim to shore after a Cessna 402B made an emergency water landing off the coast of Haiti on Wednesday. The twin-engine turboprop, operated by Haitian carrier ZED Airlines as flight 6502, came down in coastal waters near Lafiteau shortly before midday.
The aircraft, registration HI-1056, was flying a domestic route from Cap-Haitien to the Haitian capital, Port-au-Prince. The pilot performed a water landing, and all three occupants exited the light aircraft safely before swimming to shore, where they received immediate assistance.
Survivors in Stable Condition
Local responders assisted the survivors, who are reported to be in a stable condition. Footage showed the aircraft in the water close to Ibo Beach, with passengers wading through the shallows toward the shore. A spokesperson for ZED Airlines expressed relief that no one died, stating, "We are relieved that no one died. Passenger and crew safety is our absolute priority."
Investigation Underway
Aviation authorities and the airline's technical team have launched a full inquiry into the incident. No initial details have been released regarding a possible mechanical failure. The 1972-built aircraft's condition is still being assessed. ZED Airlines said the incident ended without tragedy thanks to the pilot's expert handling and swift response on the ground. Further updates are expected as the investigation continues.
