Sea Plane Crash off WA Coast: 3 Missing, 3 Hospitalized
A sea plane crash off the coast of Western Australia has left three individuals missing and three others hospitalized. The incident occurred when a privately owned sea plane, which had recently arrived from NSW, crashed into the waters of Thomson Bay on Rottnest Island shortly after taking off around 4 pm today. The aircraft was carrying one pilot and six passengers at the time of the crash, leaving authorities scrambling to locate the missing individuals.
Eyewitness Accounts
Witnesses reported to 9News that the plane appeared to stall, rocking from side to side before the left wing collided with Phillip Rock at the entrance of the bay. The aftermath of the crash saw the plane partially submerged in the water, with water police and nearby boaties rushing to the scene. Police Commissioner Col Blanch confirmed that four individuals had been rescued from the water following the crash.
Injuries and Rescues
WA Police later revealed that three of the rescued individuals were airlifted to different hospitals with varying degrees of serious injuries, while the fourth person emerged unharmed. Of those hospitalized, two women in their 40s sustained critical injuries, highlighting the severity of the incident. The crash was witnessed by numerous holidaymakers aboard the departing Rottnest Island ferry, underscoring the shocking nature of the accident.
Plane Details and Investigations
The sea plane, identified as a Swan River Seaplanes Cessna 208 Caravan 675, had only recently arrived in Perth after being acquired from a Queensland company. The aircraft’s registration to Whitsunday Air Services Pty indicated its origins in the eastern states before making its way to Perth on New Year’s Day. Flight-tracking data revealed that the plane had conducted several short trips around Perth and Rottnest Island, as well as longer flights from Bankstown in NSW through South Australia and Western Australia.
As authorities launch an investigation into the crash, the community remains on edge, awaiting updates on the missing individuals and the circumstances surrounding the tragic event. Premier Roger Cook expressed deep concern over the unfolding emergency and extended gratitude to the first responders at the crash site. Thoughts and prayers have been pouring in for the passengers and crew involved, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.
The news of the sea plane crash has sent shockwaves through the region, prompting a collective sense of urgency and solidarity as efforts continue to locate the missing individuals and piece together the events leading up to the tragic incident. Stay tuned for further updates as this developing story unfolds.
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On a personal note, as someone who has always harbored a fear of flying, hearing stories of air accidents like this one always hit close to home. It serves as a stark reminder of the risks involved in air travel and the importance of stringent safety measures to prevent such tragedies. My heart goes out to the victims, their families, and all those affected by this devastating event. Let’s take a moment to appreciate the bravery and dedication of the first responders who put their lives on the line to save others in times of crisis.