A seaplane crash-landed off the coast of Rottnest Island on Tuesday afternoon, injuring two women and creating chaos near the popular tourist destination. The privately owned aircraft, identified as a Cessna 208 registered to Trans Tasmanian Air Services, went down near Thomson Bay shortly after 4 PM, following what witnesses described as a stall during takeoff.
The incident unfolded quickly. According to eyewitness reports, as the plane attempted to leave the water, it suddenly tipped over and plunged back, leaving its tail visible above the surface. Greg Quin, who was vacationing on the island, recounted the shocking moment: "We were watching the sea plane take off and just as it was beginning to get off the water, it just tipped over and it crashed," he told ABC Radio Perth. Swiftly, civilians on boats rushed to the scene to assist, alongside local water police.
Images captured by bystanders show the aircraft nose-down in the ocean, with parts of it floating nearby. Emergency services were immediately mobilized, with boats and helicopters deployed to aid the rescue operation. Water police were aided by multiple civilian vessels on the scene to help with the rescue efforts.
The current condition of those onboard is concerning. St Johns Ambulance confirmed two women, both reportedly in their 40s, sustained serious injuries as they were extricated from the murky waters and ferried to safety. Close to the island's port, rescuers could be seen wheeling one of the injured individuals on a stretcher as they prepared for transport to the hospital, with the ambulance departing swiftly afterward.
Flight tracking data revealed the seaplane was accelerating to 117 kilometers per hour as it prepared for departure when its tracking suddenly disappeared. It was noted for frequently operating flights on the Swan River near Perth’s central business district, as well as traveling to and from the idyllic Rottnest Island, popular for its pristine beaches and unique wildlife, including the famous quokkas. Holidaymakers expressed their deep concern over the incident, which occurred close to the island’s main swimming and recreational boating areas, generating anxiety among visitors and locals alike.
Phil Shepley, another witness who was aboard the Rottnest ferry, described the scene as surreal. “I was shocked — it was just surreal,” he said, recalling the panic and rush as emergency services arrived, including rescue boats and several civilian vessels mobilizing to help. He noted seeing the aircraft's tail and wing floating above the surface, which only added to the horror as the plane rapidly sank.
Authorities continue their response efforts as investigations are underway to determine the cause of the crash. Although it remains unclear how many people were aboard the aircraft, reports suggest up to six individuals may have been on the flight. The Western Australian Police have confirmed they are working to ascertain the exact details of the event and the full extent of the injuries sustained.
The incident has raised concerns about safety regulations surrounding seaplane operations, particularly during peak travel seasons when Rottnest Island sees heavy tourist traffic. Local authorities have vowed to conduct thorough investigations to prevent future occurrences.
Rottnest Island's appeal as a tourist destination remains undiminished, with thousands flocking each year to experience its unique charm. Still, this incident will likely prompt conversations about ensuring the safety of air travel to and from the island, especially involving seaplanes, traditionally viewed as not only nostalgic but also convenient for accessing remote areas.
This seaplane crash will be closely monitored, with updates expected to follow as rescue operations continue. Relatives and friends of those identified on board are urged to reach out to local services for updates on their loved ones’ conditions. The incident serves as stark reminder of the unpredictability of air travel and the importance of swift emergency response.