GUYANA - A search operation is now underway after a small aircraft operating along the hinterland route between Madhia and Imbaimadai was located following a reported disappearance on Friday morning.

According to a statement from the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), the aircraft—a Cessna 208 bearing registration 8R-YAC and operated by Air Services Limited (ASL)—departed Madhia at 08:10h with one person on board and was expected to arrive at Imbaimadai at approximately 08:40h. However, the aircraft failed to report its arrival, triggering immediate concern and prompting aviation officials to initiate a flight progress check at 08:44h. The GCAA noted that adverse weather conditions may have played a role, with “heavy rainfall and reduced visibility” reported in the area at the time of the flight. Search and reconnaissance efforts were subsequently launched. “Search efforts led to a visual sighting of a suspected crash site, confirmed by two Trans Guyana Airways Cessna Caravans and a Britten-Norman Islander,” the GCAA said in its release. With the suspected crash site identified, the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) has since mobilised a response team to the location. (guyanachronicle)