Pilot’s body still at crash site; terrain too dangerous for helicopter recovery – GCAA 

The body of the pilot killed in a recent aircraft crash has been located in an advanced state of decomposition on a steep, forested ridge, where officials of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) say recovery efforts are being severely hampered by terrain so hazardous that no helicopter can safely operate at the site.

Captain Ryder Castillo, a Nicaraguan national, was the lone occupant of the Cessna 208 aircraft, bearing registration 8R-YAC, which went down on Friday, April 10, after departing Mahdia en route to Imbaimadai.

Authorities confirmed that the remains were discovered at the crash location and, based on their condition and position, all indications are that the pilot died instantly at the time of the accident.

The aircraft came down on a rugged ridge characterized by dense forest canopy, unstable ground, and the absence of any viable landing zone. These conditions have significantly restricted access and made recovery operations both technically complex and dangerous.

Officials emphasized that no helicopter—regardless of its capability—can safely operate directly at the crash site without posing unacceptable risks to crew and equipment.

As a result, the recovery effort is being carried out using established international protocols, which rely on ground teams navigating the difficult terrain and conducting a controlled extraction.

A carefully planned operation is expected to commence at first light, with the objective of safely recovering and transporting the remains to Imbaimadai, pending weather and ground conditions.

In addition to the remains, investigators have recovered documents and personal effects from the site, which are expected to assist in determining the circumstances surrounding the crash.

Officials noted that personnel on the ground are operating under extremely hazardous conditions, underscoring that the pace of the operation reflects a commitment to safety and professionalism rather than any delay.

Authorities also extended condolences to the pilot’s family and have asked that their privacy be respected during this difficult time.