HR-AYW

ASX Investigation

OOn March 17, 2025, a British Aerospace BAe-3212 Jetstream 31, registered as HR-AYW and operated by LANHSA (Línea Aérea Nacional de Honduras S.A.), was involved in an accident shortly after departing from Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport (RTB/MHRO) in Roatán, Honduras. The aircraft, carrying 17 occupants, was on a scheduled passenger flight to La Ceiba-Goloson International Airport (LCE/MHLC) on the Honduran mainland. The aircraft suffered an in-flight emergency, resulting in a crash into the sea approximately one kilometer off the coast, leading to significant casualties.

Reports indicate that the flight experienced difficulties immediately after takeoff, with witnesses describing a sudden rightward turn before impact. Preliminary findings suggest that the aircraft suffered a loss of engine power before it struck the water. The crash site’s depth and offshore location complicated rescue efforts. Emergency response teams, including the Honduran Fire Department and military personnel, were deployed swiftly. While ten individuals were initially rescued, six succumbed to injuries at the hospital, bringing the confirmed fatality count to at least twelve. Additionally, one passenger remained unaccounted for as divers continued recovery operations.

The accident resulted in a total loss of the aircraft, which was found submerged in deep waters. Investigators from Honduras’ Aeronáutica Civil launched an inquiry into the cause, with early indications pointing to a possible mechanical failure. A review of past incidents at the Roatán airport suggests that its proximity to the coastline presents operational risks, particularly in the event of an engine failure or loss of control during initial climb. Although no fire was reported prior to impact, debris and wreckage analysis will be crucial in determining the precise failure mechanism.

Among the deceased was renowned Honduran musician Aurelio Martínez, a key figure in Garífuna music. The identities of other passengers, including international travelers, were still being confirmed. One French national was among the survivors and was transported to Mario Catarino Rivas Hospital in San Pedro Sula for treatment. The Honduran government immediately activated an emergency response team, including air traffic control and medical personnel, to assist in the aftermath of the crash.

The aircraft’s flight history, maintenance records, and crew actions will be reviewed to assess compliance with safety regulations and potential systemic issues. The loss of engine thrust, combined with an apparent loss of directional control, suggests multiple contributing factors. Investigators will analyze flight data, cockpit voice recordings, and operational procedures to determine whether pilot response, mechanical malfunction, or environmental conditions played a decisive role in the outcome.

As recovery operations continue, authorities will focus on gathering additional forensic data from the wreckage to establish the chain of events leading to the crash. The incident underscores the challenges associated with overwater departures from airports with limited emergency landing options. Further investigation will be necessary to establish corrective measures and prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Accident Information

Approx. Accident Location

16°18’53.59″N, 86°31’15.20″W

Aircraft Fatalities

6

Ground Fatalities

0

Injured

0

Aircraft Information

Aircraft Type

British Aerospace BAe-3212

Jetstream 31

Operator

LANHSA – Línea Aérea Nacional de Honduras S.A

Registration

HR-AYW

Serial Number

863

Manufacture date

1989

Relevent Flight Tracking

Relevent Social Media

References

Local News

Jagran El Heraldo

World News

Image References

Airliners

NTSB Database

Miscellaneous

Accident Weather

Additional

Official Preliminary Report

Official Final Report