On March 17, 2025, a tragic plane crash occurred off the coast of Roatán, Honduras, shortly after takeoff from Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport. The aircraft, a Jetstream 31 operated by Lanhsa Airlines, was en route to La Ceiba when it crashed into the Caribbean Sea, resulting in the deaths of at least 12 people, including prominent Garifuna musician and former Honduran congressman Aurelio Martínez Suazo.
Among the 17 passengers and crew on board, five survived and were rescued by emergency responders. The victims included international passengers, and the cause of the crash remains under investigation by the Honduran Civil Aeronautics Agency.
Aurelio Martínez Suazo was renowned for his contributions to Garifuna music and culture, having gained international recognition for his work. His untimely death has deeply affected the Garifuna community and the broader cultural landscape.
Rescue operations were challenging due to difficult sea conditions, including heavy rocks and poor visibility, which slowed down the efforts.
The Honduran president, Xiomara Castro, has mobilized emergency response teams and ensured that nearby hospitals are prepared to treat the injured.