MIAMI – Coast Guard Southeast District watchstanders coordinated the rescue of 11 Bahamian adults from a downed aircraft approximately 80 miles off Melbourne, Florida.
A U.S. Air Force 920th Air Rescue Wing HH-60W Jolly Green helicopter crew hoisted the 11 people from a life raft. They were flown to awaiting emergency medical services at Melbourne Orlando International Airport in stable condition.
It is reported the civilian aircraft had engine failure. Bahamian authorities will be investigating the cause of the incident.
“The outstanding support from Patrick Space Force Base and the seamless coordination among all responding agencies directly contributed to the successful rescue of 11 survivors from the downed aircraft,” said Master Chief Petty Officer Omar Colon, a command duty officer, Southeast Coast Guard District. “Their rapid response, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to saving lives were instrumental in bringing everyone home safely.”
An emergency locator transmitted from a twin-engine turbo prop airplane notified Southeast District watchstanders the people were in distress, Tuesday, May 12, 2026 at approximately 11 a.m.
A Coast Guard Air Station Clearwater C-27 aircrew was launched to search, in addition to a Patrick Space Force Base HC-130J Combat King II aircrew who were already airborne conducting a training mission when the civilian aircraft and raft were spotted.
The airplane reportedly left Marsh Harbor, Bahamas, and was headed for Freeport.
Coast Guard Southeast District crews remain ready to respond to maritime emergencies across the district. Through seamless coordination between Coast Guard watchstanders, operational crews and partner agencies, responders executed a rapid search and rescue response to protect lives and safeguard the maritime community.
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