Coast Guard and local responders launch swift rescue operation near Sucia Island
WASHINGTON: All 11 people aboard a Kenmore Air seaplane were safely accounted for after the aircraft made an emergency landing in the waters near Sucia Island in Washington state before catching fire, the US Coast Guard said on Thursday.
According to the Coast Guard, the incident occurred in Shallow Bay at approximately 5:15 p.m. local time. The aircraft, a de Havilland DHC-3 Otter operated by Kenmore Air, had departed from Seattle’s Lake Union and was en route when it encountered difficulties.
An image released by the Coast Guard showed the seaplane engulfed in flames while floating in the water after the emergency landing.
Sucia Island is part of Washington state’s San Juan Islands, located north of Seattle near the Canadian border.
Several passengers taken for medical evaluation
The US Coast Guard coordinated a rescue operation with Canadian and local emergency responders, deploying multiple assets to assist those on board.
Officials confirmed that several passengers were transported to nearby hospitals for medical evaluation and treatment. Kenmore Air said the aircraft was carrying 10 passengers and one pilot.
According to the airline, two injured passengers were taken to medical facilities in Bellingham, while another two were transported to Orcas Island for further examination and treatment. Authorities have not disclosed the nature or severity of the injuries.
Investigation underway
Kenmore Air Chief Executive Officer David Gudgel said the airline is fully cooperating with investigators and will continue to provide verified updates as more information becomes available.
The cause of the emergency landing and subsequent fire has not yet been determined, and authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.
Founded in 1946, Kenmore Air is the largest seaplane airline in the United States. The company operates scheduled, charter and scenic flights and carries more than 90,000 passengers each year, according to information available on its website.
Officials are expected to examine the aircraft and review flight data as part of the investigation to determine what led to the emergency and ensure the continued safety of future operations.
