A Kenmore Air seaplane carrying 11 people made an emergency landing in the waters near Sucia Island in Washington’s San Juan Islands on Thursday before catching fire, triggering a large-scale international rescue operation.
All 11 occupants, including the pilot and 10 passengers, were safely accounted for after the crash. Authorities confirmed that four passengers suffered serious injuries, with one reported in critical condition. Injuries include head trauma, broken bones, and lacerations.
The floatplane had departed Seattle’s Lake Union at approximately 4:30 p.m. local time and was en route to Roche Harbor when it went down about 45 minutes into the flight.
The U.S. Coast Guard quickly launched a major search and rescue mission, joined by the U.S. Navy, Canadian Coast Guard, and several local emergency agencies. Rescue helicopters, boats, and hovercraft were deployed, with survivors transported to hospitals in Bellingham, Friday Harbor, and Mount Vernon.
Kenmore Air CEO David Gudgel said the airline’s immediate priority is supporting the passengers, pilot, their families, and employees. The airline has canceled all scheduled flights for Friday while it cooperates fully with investigators.
The cause of the accident remains under investigation. Weather conditions at the time included strong winds with gusts up to 20 mph and rain showers moving through the area, though officials have not determined whether weather played a role.
Founded in 1946, Kenmore Air is the largest seaplane airline in the United States, carrying more than 90,000 passengers annually.
