All 11 people aboard a Kenmore Air floatplane survived after the aircraft crashed Thursday near Sucia Island in the San Juan Islands in Washington state.
A boater caught the approach of the de Havilland DHC-3 Otter on video. The aircraft comes in low over the water, crossing from left to right in the frame, the wings rocking slightly. The aircraft goes out of frame to the right behind terrain, and a loud crash is heard. The video picks up again from another angle and shows the burning airplane up against the shoreline, black smoke billowing from the wreckage.
Injuries to the occupants were reported as cuts and bruises and broken bones. The injured were taken to local hospitals.
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Kenmore Air is the oldest regional airline in the Seattle area. According to a statement released from the company, the aircraft took off from Lake Union around 4:30 p.m. PDT and was heading for Roche Harbor. The aircraft went down at approximately 5:15 p.m.
“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,” Kenmore Air CEO David Gudgel said in the statement. “We extend our sincere thanks to the United States Coast Guard, local emergency responders, and everyone assisting in the response.”
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating the accident. Kenmore Air canceled all scheduled flights for Friday, stating that its focus is supporting the passengers, pilot, and family on board the aircraft.
Kenmore Air offers scheduled flights between Seattle and Tacoma, Washington, to multiple destinations in the San Juan Islands and British Columbia in Canada. The airline fleet consists of both floatplanes and Cessna Caravans on wheels.
