Why it's trending
The crash of a commercial seaplane with multiple serious injuries, including a critical condition, and the dramatic rescue involving multiple agencies has drawn significant media attention and public concern.
A Kenmore Air seaplane carrying 11 people made an emergency landing and caught fire off the coast of Washington near Sucia Island on Thursday, July 24, 2026. All aboard were rescued, but four people suffered serious injuries, including one in critical condition, according to the San Juan County Sheriff's Office and Kenmore Air.
The U.S. Coast Guard reported receiving initial reports around 5:25 p.m. and launched a multi-agency search and rescue operation involving the U.S. Navy, Canadian Coast Guard, and local agencies. Emergency dispatch audio captured coordination including a Coast Guard helicopter and a Canadian Coast Guard hovercraft. A civilian boat that witnessed the crash began rescuing people before authorities arrived, San Juan County Sheriff Eric Peter told ABC News.
Kenmore Air stated the flight departed Lake Union in Seattle at 4:30 p.m. bound for Roche Harbor, about 100 miles northwest. The plane went down approximately 45 minutes after takeoff. The cause of the emergency landing is unknown. The FAA and NTSB are investigating. Kenmore Air CEO David Gudgel expressed gratitude that everyone was accounted for and pledged full cooperation with investigators.
The incident highlights the risks of seaplane travel in the region and the effectiveness of rapid multi-agency response. As investigations proceed, authorities will focus on determining what led to the crash and whether any safety improvements are needed.
Timeline
- Flight Departs
Kenmore Air seaplane departs Lake Union in Seattle with 10 passengers and 1 pilot, heading to Roche Harbor.
- Emergency Landing
The plane makes an emergency landing in North Beach Shallow Bay near Sucia Island and catches fire.
- Coast Guard Notified
U.S. Coast Guard receives initial reports and launches search and rescue assets.
- Rescue Completed
All 11 people rescued from water; four hospitalized with serious injuries, one critical. Civilian boat assisted.
Questions people ask
What caused the Kenmore Air seaplane to crash?
The cause is unknown and under investigation by the FAA and NTSB, according to CNN and ABC News.
How many people were injured?
Four people were seriously injured, including one in critical condition, according to the San Juan County Sheriff's Office and Kenmore Air.
Where did the crash happen?
The crash occurred near Sucia Island in the San Juan Islands, Washington, in North Beach Shallow Bay, per the Coast Guard and FAA.
Join the conversation 0
Comments are reviewed before publishing.