A dramatic rescue operation unfolded off the Washington coast on Thursday when a Kenmore Air floatplane was forced to make an emergency landing, subsequently erupting into flames, according to officials. Several individuals sustained injuries during the incident.
The U.S. Coast Guard reported receiving an alert at about 5:25 p.m. local time regarding the emergency landing of a Kenmore Air seaplane at North Beach Shallow Bay near Sucia Island. Following the landing, the plane caught fire.
Officials have confirmed that all ten passengers, along with the pilot, were safely accounted for in the aftermath of the crash.
A Kenmore Air floatplane ignited in flames post-emergency landing at North Beach Shallow Bay near Sucia Island in Washington, as described by authorities. There were multiple injuries reported from the event. (U.S. Coast Guard)
According to the San Juan County Sheriff’s Office, the injured individuals suffered a range of injuries, including head traumas, broken bones, and various lacerations due to the incident.
Kenmore Air said four passengers were taken to local hospitals for treatment. Authorities said one person was in critical condition. No fatalities were immediately reported.
The airline said it was working closely with investigators and would provide additional updates as more information becomes available.
A Kenmore Air floatplane heads for the dock at the Poulsbo Marina on Tuesday, March 7, 2023. (USA TODAY Network via Reuters)
Kenmore Air CEO David Gudgel said the company’s immediate focus was on those aboard the aircraft.
“We are grateful that everyone aboard has been accounted for, and our immediate focus is ensuring our passengers and pilot receive the care and support they need,” Gudgel said.
“We extend our sincere thanks to the United States Coast Guard, local emergency responders, and everyone assisting in the response,” he continued. “Kenmore Air is fully cooperating with the investigating authorities, and we will continue providing verified information as it becomes available.”
The airline said the aircraft involved was a de Havilland DHC-3 Otter operating near Sucia Island.
According to the sheriff’s office, the flight departed Seattle’s Lake Union and was headed to Roche Harbor Marina on San Juan Island.
A Kenmore Air spokesperson told News Media the route between Lake Union and the San Juan Islands is a routine flight for the airline.
“If you live here, you would be potentially taking a seaplane up there,” the spokesperson said.
A Kenmore Air pilot pushes his seaplane off the dock after picking up passengers. (USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect)
The sheriff’s office said multiple agencies responded by deploying boats and emergency personnel to the scene.
The U.S. Navy also responded, while three air ambulance helicopters transported injured passengers.
Orcas Island Fire & Rescue, Lopez Island Fire & Rescue, San Juan Island Fire & Rescue and San Juan County Parks also responded.
The cause of the accident remains under investigation.
News Media has reached out to the U.S. Coast Guard for additional comment.