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Multiple people were injured Thursday after a Kenmore Air floatplane made an emergency landing off the Washington coast before catching fire, prompting a massive rescue operation, authorities said.
The U.S. Coast Guard said it received a report around 5:25 p.m. local time that a Kenmore Air seaplane had made an emergency landing in North Beach Shallow Bay off Sucia Island before bursting into flames.
Authorities said all 10 passengers and the pilot were accounted for.
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A Kenmore Air floatplane caught fire after making an emergency landing in North Beach Shallow Bay off Sucia Island, Washington, authorities said. Multiple people were injured. (U.S. Coast Guard)
The San Juan County Sheriff’s Office said multiple people suffered injuries ranging from head trauma to broken bones and lacerations.
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.
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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 Digital 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.
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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.
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The cause of the accident remains under investigation.
Digital has reached out to the U.S. Coast Guard for additional comment.
