NASSAU, The Bahamas (CMC) — The Bahamas Civil Aviation Authority says investigations are underway into two near-miss incidents involving American Airlines aircraft at the country’s Family Island airports last month, with officials warning that corrective action will be taken if any safety breaches are uncovered.

The first incident occurred on February 12 near Exuma, when an American Airlines aircraft on approach was forced to take evasive action to avoid a departing plane, according to a report referenced by United States (US) federal regulators.

Two flight attendants were injured during the sudden manoeuvre and were taken to a local clinic for medical evaluation. Both were later placed on leave.

A second incident was reported on February 24 at North Eleuthera, where an American Airlines aircraft was preparing for takeoff when another jet reportedly passed overhead while it remained on the runway.

The authority said it could not comment on specific findings at this stage, noting that premature disclosure could compromise the integrity of the investigation or pre-empt its conclusions.

The probe follows a report by The Tribune newspaper on the February incidents and a subsequent Serious Safety Concern advisory issued by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Authority to the regulator, warning that the incidents could have resulted in catastrophic consequences.

The notice said preliminary information suggested that proper communication procedures at the uncontrolled aerodromes may not have been followed.

According to the advisory, American Airlines reported that neither aircraft self-announced its position on the correct radio frequency, a requirement under international aviation standards for airports without control towers.

Meanwhile, Debra Moxey Rolle, candidate for Free National Movement in Exuma, expressed concern about the incidents and called for a review of airport procedures.

She said the events highlight the need to strengthen aviation systems and infrastructure, referencing a recent case in which an emergency medical flight was unable to land in Exuma due to a runway lighting failure, and the patient later died.

“Exuma families depend on safe and reliable air access for travel, commerce and life-saving medical emergencies,” Rolle said. “When it comes to matters of safety and life, silence is not an option.”

The Bahamas Civil Aviation Authority said it remains committed to conducting a thorough and evidence-based investigation.

“Should the investigation identify any areas requiring corrective action or safety enhancements, appropriate measures will be implemented in accordance with the authority’s regulatory mandate and international best practices,” the regulator said.