Seaplane Carrying Tourists Crashes in Australia... Pilot and Two Others Dead

Prime Minister "Tragic Accident... Very Regrettable"

A seaplane carrying tourists crashed on an island in Australia, resulting in the deaths of three people.

According to local media including The West Australian on the 8th (local time), a privately owned seaplane crashed near Thomson Bay on Rottnest Island, a popular tourist destination in Western Australia, the previous afternoon.

Footage showed the seaplane, which took off near the coast, failing to gain altitude and sharply tilting to the left. The plane's left wing began to touch the sea surface and eventually plunged into the ocean.

A seaplane crashed on Rottnest Island, Australia. Photo by The Guardian

Local police reported that there were seven people on board the aircraft involved in the accident. Three people, including the 34-year-old pilot and two foreign tourists in their 60s, died, while four others were rescued. The passengers were confirmed to be three couples, and those rescued were transported to a hospital for treatment.

There were reports that the plane crashed after hitting rocks during takeoff, but this has not yet been confirmed. The operator has suspended all flights following the accident. The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) plans to dispatch an investigation team to determine the exact cause of the accident.

Roger Cook, Premier of Western Australia, said, "Last night, divers recovered the bodies of three deceased from the wreckage of the plane," adding, "It is very unfortunate that such a tragic accident occurred on Rottnest Island, one of Western Australia's top tourist destinations that brings joy to many."

He continued, "I thank the police, firefighters, and paramedics. It must have taken courage to help those in desperate situations," and added, "Their efforts saved lives."

Meanwhile, Rottnest Island is a popular resort visited by thousands of people annually. It is also known as the habitat of the world-famous native quokka.