A Kenmore Air seaplane crashed near Sucia Island on Thursday, injuring all 11 people on board as the pilot adjusted for a thunderstorm.
A Kenmore Air seaplane struck a rocky shore near Sucia Island on Thursday evening after the pilot veered to avoid a thunderstorm. All 11 people on board sustained injuries, including head wounds and broken bones, though three passengers remain hospitalized in satisfactory condition. The aircraft, a DHC-3 Otter, took off from Seattle and was heading toward Roche Harbor when it made an abrupt 180-degree turn. Witnesses observed the plane flying low over the water before making a hard landing on one float and hitting the land. Nearby boats and a U.S. Coast Guard helicopter assisted in a swift rescue operation. Kenmore Air CEO David Gudgel confirmed the plane was up to date on maintenance and stated the company is cooperating with investigators. While the exact cause of the crash remains under review, the airline noted the pilot adjusted the flight path in response to the local weather system. The National Transportation Safety Board is expected to release a preliminary report in approximately one month.