Why it's trending
The crash is trending due to dramatic video of the seaplane bursting into flames during the emergency landing, combined with the successful rescue of all 11 people despite serious injuries. The incident involves a well-known regional airline, Kenmore Air, and has prompted a multi-agency response.
A Kenmore Air seaplane carrying 11 people crashed and caught fire near Sucia Island, Washington, on Thursday, July 24, 2026. All 11 people—a pilot and 10 passengers—were rescued after the plane made an emergency landing in North Beach Shallow Bay, according to the US Coast Guard. Four people were transported to hospitals with serious injuries, including one in critical condition, per San Juan County Sheriff Eric Peter.
The plane took off from Lake Union in Seattle at 4:30 p.m. and was headed to Roche Harbor, about 100 miles northwest, when it went down around 45 minutes later. The US Coast Guard received reports at approximately 5:25 p.m. and launched a multi-agency search and rescue operation involving the US Navy, Canadian Coast Guard, and local agencies. Emergency dispatch audio captured coordination efforts, including a Coast Guard helicopter and a Canadian hovercraft.
Kenmore Air confirmed the flight details in a statement. The cause of the emergency landing remains unknown. Injuries ranged from head injuries to broken bones and lacerations, according to Sheriff Peter. Video from Fox News shows the seaplane bursting into flames during the landing, but all occupants survived.
The incident highlights the risks of seaplane travel in the region and the effectiveness of rapid multi-agency response. Investigations by the FAA and NTSB are expected to determine the cause. Kenmore Air has not commented on potential operational changes.
Timeline
- Departure from Lake Union
Kenmore Air seaplane departs Seattle's Lake Union with a pilot and 10 passengers, bound for Roche Harbor.
- Emergency landing
The plane makes an emergency landing in North Beach Shallow Bay near Sucia Island and catches fire.
- Coast Guard notified
US Coast Guard receives initial reports and launches search and rescue assets, including a helicopter and Canadian hovercraft.
- All 11 rescued
All passengers and pilot are accounted for; four hospitalized with serious injuries, one critical.
Questions people ask
How many people were on the Kenmore Air seaplane?
There were 11 people on board: a pilot and 10 passengers, according to the US Coast Guard.
What caused the crash?
The cause of the emergency landing is unknown, as stated by authorities.
Were there any fatalities?
No fatalities were reported. All 11 people were rescued, though four suffered serious injuries.
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