11 Rescued After Seaplane Makes Emergency Water Landing Near Washington's San Juan Islands
All 11 people aboard a Kenmore Air seaplane survived after the aircraft was forced to make an emergency water landing near Washington state's San Juan Islands on Thursday. Authorities launched a large-scale rescue operation involving multiple U.S. and Canadian agencies after the aircraft caught fire shortly after touching down in the water.
Emergency crews confirmed that every passenger and the pilot were safely accounted for, although several people were hospitalized with serious injuries.
Emergency Landing Triggers Multi-Agency Rescue
The seaplane was traveling from Seattle's Lake Union to Roche Harbor when the incident occurred near Sucia Island.
According to officials, the aircraft made an emergency landing in North Beach Shallow Bay before catching fire, prompting an immediate response from rescue teams.
The U.S. Coast Guard received reports of the emergency at approximately 5:25 p.m. local time and quickly deployed search and rescue resources.
Support also came from the U.S. Navy, the Canadian Coast Guard, and several local emergency agencies.
All 11 Occupants Accounted For
The aircraft was carrying 11 people, including the pilot and 10 passengers.
Authorities confirmed that everyone aboard was safely located following the emergency landing.
While all occupants survived, four passengers suffered serious injuries and were transported to hospitals for treatment.
Officials said one passenger remained in critical condition, while the others sustained injuries ranging from head trauma to broken bones and lacerations.
Injured Passengers Taken to Multiple Hospitals
Two injured passengers were transported to a hospital in Bellingham, while two others were flown to a medical facility in Seattle.
The remaining seven passengers were taken to a U.S. Coast Guard facility, where they underwent medical evaluations after the rescue.
Emergency officials have not released the identities of those involved.
Cause of the Incident Under Investigation
Authorities have not determined what caused the pilot to make the emergency landing.
The aircraft departed Lake Union at approximately 4:30 p.m. and went down roughly 45 minutes into the flight while en route to Roche Harbor.
Federal investigators are expected to examine the aircraft and review flight information as part of the ongoing investigation.
Kenmore Air Responds
Kenmore Air said its immediate priority is supporting those affected by the incident.
In a statement, CEO David Gudgel said the company is grateful that everyone aboard survived and confirmed the airline is cooperating fully with investigators.
The airline added that additional verified information will be released as the investigation progresses.
What Happens Next?
Investigators will work to determine what led to the emergency water landing while officials continue assessing the aircraft and reviewing witness accounts. Authorities are also expected to monitor the recovery of the injured passengers in the coming days.
FAQ
Where did the seaplane crash?
The Kenmore Air seaplane made an emergency water landing near Sucia Island in Washington state's San Juan Islands before catching fire.
How many people were on board?
There were 11 people aboard the aircraft, including one pilot and 10 passengers.
Did everyone survive the crash?
Yes. Authorities confirmed that all 11 people were rescued and accounted for after the emergency landing.
How many people were injured?
Four passengers suffered serious injuries and were taken to hospitals. One of those passengers was reported to be in critical condition.
Where was the flight headed?
The seaplane departed from Lake Union in Seattle and was traveling to Roche Harbor when the incident occurred.
What caused the emergency landing?
The cause has not yet been determined. Officials are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
