Kenmore Air Seaplane Crashes Near Sucia Island, All 11 People Rescued
Introduction
A Kenmore Air seaplane crashed into the water near Sucia Island in Washington's San Juan Islands, triggering a major emergency response.
The aircraft was carrying 11 people—10 passengers and one pilot. All those on board were accounted for and rescued after the crash.
Flight Crashes Near Sucia Island
The aircraft, a de Havilland DHC-3 Otter operated by Kenmore Air, had departed from Seattle's Lake Union and was traveling toward Roche Harbor.
The crash occurred near Sucia Island in San Juan County.
Emergency crews quickly responded to the scene after reports that the aircraft had gone down in the water.
All 11 People Rescued
Authorities confirmed that all 11 people aboard the aircraft survived the crash.
Several passengers were injured and received medical attention. Some were transported for further treatment, while others were taken to nearby medical facilities for evaluation.
Reports indicated that injuries included conditions such as broken bones, head injuries and cuts. One person was initially reported to be in critical condition.
Emergency Response
A large rescue operation was launched following the crash.
The response involved multiple agencies, including:
The U.S. Coast Guard.
San Juan County emergency services.
Local fire and rescue teams.
Law enforcement agencies.
Medical responders.
Rescuers worked to reach the passengers and pilot in the water and transport those requiring treatment to safety.
Possible Emergency Landing
Initial reports indicated that the aircraft may have been attempting an emergency landing before crashing into the water.
The exact circumstances that led to the emergency remain under investigation.
Authorities have not yet announced a final cause of the crash.
Investigation Underway
Investigators are expected to examine the aircraft, flight data, weather conditions, pilot actions and other factors that may have contributed to the accident.
The investigation will be important in determining exactly what happened before the aircraft went down.
Officials have emphasized that the investigation is ongoing and that early information may change as more evidence becomes available.
Kenmore Air Responds
Kenmore Air activated its emergency response procedures following the incident.
The airline said its priority was the care and support of the passengers, pilot and their families.
The company has also been cooperating with emergency responders and authorities investigating the crash.
Conclusion
The Kenmore Air seaplane crash near Sucia Island prompted a major rescue operation, but the incident ended with all 11 people aboard being rescued.
Several people suffered injuries and were taken for medical evaluation, while investigators began working to determine why the aircraft required an emergency landing and ultimately crashed into the water.
The investigation into the cause of the accident remains ongoing.