An independent expert believes the Cessna that crashed last week, killing R&B sensation Aaliyah and eight others, was overloaded. Bahamian aviation officials recently estimated the weight of the plane at 5,495 pounds — not including the nine adults on board.

The maximum authorized takeoff weight for that type of plane is 6,300 pounds. Since the plane and its seats account for at least 4,100 pounds, fuel, luggage, and passengers can only weigh an additional 2,200 pounds. Estimates say the plane was carrying 804 pounds of fuel and 574 pounds(!) of baggage. That leaves 800 pounds—for nine adults …