According to preliminary accounts, the jet may have collided with a rock near the entrance to a bay on the island’s west side.
PERTH- A devastating seaplane crash near Rottnest Island, Australia, claimed three lives, including international tourists from Switzerland and Denmark. A Cessna 208 Caravan crashed on takeoff on Tuesday afternoon.
The incident, involving a Swan River Seaplane, left three other passengers injured and one unhurt, necessitating an immediate emergency reaction and investigation into the reason of the crash.
Seaplane Crash in Australia
The tragedy occurred on Tuesday afternoon, January 7, 2025, when the seaplane was leaving Rottnest Island, also known by its Indigenous name, Wadjemup.
The aircraft was in route to its base in Perth, Western Australia’s capital, which is around 30 kilometers east of the island.
The crash claimed the lives of three persons. A 65-year-old Swiss woman, a 60-year-old Danish man, and a 34-year-old Perth-based pilot.
The survivors were the Swiss woman’s 63-year-old partner, the Danish man’s 58-year-old companion, and an Australian pair aged 65 and 63.
Col Blanch, the Western Australian Police Commissioner, reported that no survivors received life-threatening injuries. However, three of the injured were taken to a Perth hospital for treatment.
The actual cause of the crash is still under investigation. According to preliminary accounts, the jet may have collided with a rock near the entrance to a bay on the island’s west side.
However, Western Australian Premier Roger Cook noted that these specifics could not be corroborated based on the video evidence seen so far.
The Cessna 208 Caravan seaplane is widely utilized for tourism and short-haul flights. Swan River Seaplanes, which specializes in picturesque flying tours in the area, owned and operated it.
Australian PM Remarks
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed deep grief for the occurrence, emphasizing its impact on both the local community and the general public.
“The pictures would have been seen by all Australians as they woke up this morning,” Albanese told ABC television. “My heart goes out to all those involved.”
The accident has focused attention on aviation safety requirements in tourist-heavy areas, particularly in operations involving smaller aircraft.
Similar Incident
In a similar event, two persons were hospitalized after a seaplane collided in Vancouver’s Coal Harbour near Stanley Park, officials said.
On Saturday afternoon, about 1 p.m. PT, a Harbour Air seaplane collided with a pleasure boat.
Rescue boats responded promptly to the site near Brockton Point, where the plane was discovered buried in the ocean.
According to the Vancouver Police Department (VPD), multiple persons on both the seaplane and the boat were injured, with two requiring hospitalization.
Assistant Chief Jarret Gray of Vancouver Fire and Rescue Services verified on Sunday morning that the injured people were on board the boat.
The plane was tied underwater to a barge at the Main Street Dock while the inquiry was ongoing.
FAQ
Where did the plane crash occur near Rottnest Island?
The plane crash occurred off the coast of Rottnest Island, a popular tourist destination in Western Australia.
How many people were on board the plane during the crash?
There were three people on board the plane at the time of the crash, all of whom tragically lost their lives.
What type of aircraft was involved in the Rottnest Island crash?
Details about the type of aircraft involved in the crash are yet to be fully confirmed by the authorities.
What caused the plane to crash near Rottnest Island?
The cause of the crash is under investigation by aviation safety authorities. Preliminary reports suggest mechanical failure could be a factor.
Are rescue and recovery operations ongoing at the crash site?
Yes, rescue and recovery operations were immediately launched following the incident, and investigators are currently examining the site.
