Today is the 2nd of March, 2026, and the community is mourning the loss of two dedicated pilots from Agape Flights, a Florida-based Christian ministry. The organization confirmed on February 12 that Patrick Decker and Kory Elleby tragically lost their lives in a plane crash in Haiti on February 5. The incident has not only shaken their families but also the entire Agape Flights community, who expressed their grief through heartfelt posts on social media. You can read more about their story on Tampa Bay 28.
Patrick Decker, who was married for 40 years and a father of two, had an extensive career with United Airlines and had volunteered with Agape Flights for nine years. Kory Elleby, also married and a father of two, had dedicated eight years to serving with the same organization. Both pilots were engaged in supporting humanitarian efforts, and their loss has left a significant void in their families and the community they served.
Details of the Crash
The crash involved an Embraer 110 Bandeirante cargo aircraft, tail number N316AF. Contact with the aircraft was lost, and it was located a day later in the mountainous terrain between Jérémie and Les Cayes in Haiti. Search operations were conducted by Haiti’s National Civil Aviation Office, with support from the local Rescue and Coordination Center and Hero Client Rescue, a U.S.-based nonprofit. Unfortunately, the remains of the pilots were not recovered until several days after the wreckage was found. Agape Flights CEO Allen Speer confirmed that the survival of the pilots was not expected after the aircraft disappeared.
Despite the tragedy, Agape Flights takes solace in the belief that the pilots are now in the presence of God. The organization has been transporting cargo and humanitarian aid to Haiti since its first flight in November 1989, and this incident serves as a reminder of the risks involved in their vital mission.
The Bigger Picture in Haiti
The crash occurred against a backdrop of ongoing violence and instability in Haiti. The current unrest can be traced back to the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in July 2021, which has led to widespread chaos. Armed gangs have taken control of Port-au-Prince and critical overland routes, resulting in significant loss of life. From January to September 2024, over 1,000 individuals lost their lives due to armed conflicts, including at least 230 civilians.
The situation has been exacerbated by a political impasse, with the transition government lacking public support. The recent withdrawal of Prime Minister Ariel Henry following an attack on the airport further highlights the fragility of governance in the country. Although violence has slightly decreased since mid-2024, the humanitarian crisis persists, with many Haitians facing hunger and displacement. Haiti, one of the poorest countries in the Western Hemisphere, continues to struggle with economic decline and instability.
In light of these challenges, the work of organizations like Agape Flights remains crucial. They are committed to bringing hope and support to those in need, even amid adversity. For more on the situation in Haiti, you can explore further details from the Haitian Times and the complex history of the nation on the Federal Agency for Civic Education.