A tragic seaplane crash off the coast of Rottnest Island has claimed the lives of three individuals, including the pilot, on Tuesday afternoon. The incident, involving a privately owned Cessna 208 Caravan 675, occurred shortly after takeoff from Thomson Bay around 4pm WST when the aircraft reportedly struggled to gain altitude and crashed nose-first.
According to WA Police, those who lost their lives include 34-year-old James Wong, the pilot from Perth, along with two tourists: a 65-year-old woman from Switzerland and a 60-year-old man from Denmark. Premier Roger Cook confirmed the fatalities on Wednesday, expressing deep sorrow at the loss.
“For something so tragic to happen... is deeply upsetting,” Cook remarked during the press conference, acknowledging the distressing nature of the event for the families of the victims and the numerous witnesses present on the island.
The seaplane, operated by Swan River Seaplanes, was returning to Perth at the time of the crash. Witnesses reported seeing the aircraft struggle before it took off and then plummet back to the water, leading to immediate rescue operations by police and civilians.
The incident was dramatic, as reports indicated the plane hit Phillip Rock—a small limestone outcrop—although this has yet to be confirmed. Eyewitness Hayden Harvey described the moment it crashed, stating, “It was just a big splash, it wasn't a big explosion or anything crazy,” adding to the chaos as people rushed to aid those still on board.
Of the seven people on the plane, four were rescued from the water, including three who were taken to nearby hospitals with serious injuries. A 63-year-old Swiss man, along with couples from Western Australia, suffered varying degrees of trauma; one person, tragically, experienced severe hand injuries.
Emergency services were swift to respond, thanks not only to the professionalism of law enforcement but also the efforts of civilians who “immediately jumped” to assist the survivors. Cook commended the community for their heroism, stating, “They responded with true Western Australian spirit.”
Kristy Bailey, director of Swan River Seaplanes, expressed her heartbreak over the loss of pilot James Wong, declaring him “a talented and dedicated pilot who was an integral and deeply cherished member of our team.” Her sentiments were echoed by other officials, emphasizing a sense of loss felt not only by the company but by the community at large.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) has launched an investigation, with officers arriving from various locations, including Perth and Brisbane, to begin their work. They will analyze wreckage and collect flight data, and officials have urged anyone with video or eyewitness accounts to come forward to help piece together what led to this catastrophic event.
Authorities imposed a 200-meter exclusion zone around the area of the crash to facilitate the investigation and recovery of the aircraft parts still submerged under the water—located approximately eight meters deep.
WA Police Commissioner Col Blanch acknowledged the challenging operation for divers tasked with recovering the deceased and noted the presence of bystanders who helped rescue survivors during the chaotic aftermath of the accident. “We do understand certainly civilian vessels were involved,” he confirmed, highlighting the collaborative nature of the rescue efforts.
On social media, tributes and condolences flowed for the victims, many of whom were enjoying their summer holidays on Rottnest Island—a locale known for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant tourism.
“This is, no doubt, very difficult for everyone involved and on behalf of every West Australian, I want you to know you’re in our thoughts and prayers,” Cook added, underscoring the event's widespread impact. The community is mourning collectively as investigators work to determine what led to this tragic incident.
The Cessna seaplane had recently been acquired by Swan River Seaplanes, which has maintained a flawless safety record prior to this tragedy and offered scenic flights around Perth and Rottnest Island since its establishment. The aviation company has temporarily suspended its operations as it provides support to the victims’ families and cooperates fully with the investigation.
This tragedy has raised questions around aviation safety, especially involving smaller operators, prompting calls for thorough evaluations of operational procedures as investigations continue. Reports detail the emotions felt across the island, contrasting the joy usually associated with holidaying at Rottnest against the backdrop of grief following this accident.
The crash has left many reflecting on the fragility of life, especially during festive times when families gather and celebrate. The loss felt by the victims' families is unfathomable, and the community stands united, offering support and remembrance for those who tragically lost their lives.
Investigation updates are expected as the ATSB conducts its thorough examination, hoping to provide answers for the victims' families and the larger community left searching for clarity following this deeply upsetting event.