The aircraft, operated by airline Lanhsa, was carrying 14 passengers and three crew members, according to the country’s transport ministry.

National police confirmed the deaths which also included, according to local media, two children, a US national and a French national.

The plane had been scheduled to fly to La Ceiba airport on the Honduran mainland.

Both police and fire officials detailed the rescue effort under way.

Photos showed emergency services working by torchlight on Monday night to recover bodies from the sea.

Roatan, the largest of the Bay Islands just off the Honduran coast, is a popular tourist attraction and known for its coral reefs.

Local fire chief Franklin Borjas said adverse conditions had complicated the search and rescue efforts.

It was added the search for the last victim was ongoing, the fire service said.

Honduran President Xiomara Castro said: “I have immediately activated the Emergency Operations Committee (COE) team, comprised of the Armed Forces, the Honduran Fire Department, COPECO, the National Police, 911, the Red Cross, the Ministry of Health, and SAN.

“They have immediately arrived at the scene of the plane crash that occurred 1km from Roatan International Airport and are tirelessly assisting in the unfortunate incident.

“The public hospitals in San Pedro Sula and La Ceiba are now ready to treat injured passengers.

“May God protect people’s lives.”