Report on Fly Jamaica’s emergency landing presented to Cabinet

– Min. Harmon says theft by fire officers “reprehensible”, tarnished country’s image

DPI, Guyana, Friday, November 30, 2018

Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson has presented to the Cabinet, a report on the Fly Jamaica Flight OJ256 emergency landing on November 9, 2018, at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA).

This was today disclosed by Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, who said the Cabinet was briefed on the details of the incident including the number of persons who sustained injuries.

“Cabinet noted the report and expressed the wish that those persons injured would receive a speedy recovery,” he said.

With regard to the alleged theft of personal belongings of crew members by officers of the Guyana Fire Service, who first arrived on the scene, Minister Harmon deemed the actions as “reprehensible.”

Minister Harmon said this action has seriously tarnished Guyana’s image. Four fire officers were charged and placed before the court. They have been released on $100,000 bail and are expected to return to court on December 12.

There were 118 passengers, two infants and the eight crew members (six Guyanese, two Jamaicans) on board the flight.  Among them were 35 Guyanese, one Trinidadian, 82 Canadians, one Pakistani and 11 American citizens.

Six passengers suffered minor injuries due to the impact to the back of the aircraft. They were rushed to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre for treatment.

Minister Patterson, Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Annette Ferguson, Director General of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), Lt. Col. Egbert Field and other officials were at the CJIA immediately following the incident.

Stacy Carmichael .
Image: Keno George.