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Date:
January 7, 2025
Time:
c. 16:00 LT
Type of Aircraft:
Cessna 208 Caravan I (float equipped)
Owner/Operator:
Swan River Seaplanes
Registration:
VH-WTY
MSN:
20800586
Year of Manufacture:
2016
Engine Model:
Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-114A
Fatalities:
[Not confirmed] / Occupants: 7Other Fatalities:
0
Aircraft Damage:
Destroyed
Location:
Off Rottnest Island, near Thomson Bay, WA – Australia
Phase:
Take-off
Nature:
Passenger
Departure Airport:
Rottnest Island, WA
Destination Airport:
[Not specified]Confidence Rating:
Information is only available from news, social media or unofficial sources
Circumstances:
A Cessna 208 Caravan I floatplane operated by Swan River Seaplanes crashed during a take-off attempt from Thomson Bay off Rottnest Island, Western Australia. The aircraft was carrying seven occupants, including the pilot.
Shortly after becoming airborne, the aircraft banked sharply to the left, causing the wingtip to strike the water. The aircraft then nosed down and impacted the water.
A major rescue operation was launched, involving multiple agencies and nearby boats. Four people were rescued from the water, with three suffering serious injuries and one escaping without harm. Tragically, three occupants remain unaccounted for.
The ATSB is investigating the accident and has deployed investigators to the scene. They will examine the wreckage, interview witnesses, and gather relevant information, including flight tracking data, pilot and aircraft maintenance records, and weather conditions.
This accident is a stark reminder of the risks associated with aviation, particularly in challenging environments like water take-offs and landings. The investigation will aim to determine the cause of the accident and any contributing factors to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Carter Capner Law monitors accidents involving light aircraft, helicopters, charter flights, balloons, commuter aircraft and airlines throughout Australia and overseas to spotlight safety issues of concern to our clients and to demonstrate those situations in which they may have a right to an insurance or compensation recovery. We act for pilots, passengers, operators, aircraft owners and aviation employees worldwide. Call today on 1300 529 529 or click here to reach Carter Capner Law. Click on Client Showcase to view our history of aircraft accident compensation claims.