Ten Aboard Kenmore Air Floatplane Injured After Emergency Landing, Fire off Washington Coast

The U.S. Coast Guard responded to an emergency Thursday evening after a Kenmore Air floatplane touched down in North Beach Shallow Bay near Sucia Island off the Washington coast and subsequently ignited. Authorities received notification at approximately 5:25 p.m. local time of the incident involving the de Havilland DHC-3 Otter aircraft, which was operating a routine service between Seattle’s Lake Union and Roche Harbor Marina on San Juan Island.

All 10 passengers aboard the aircraft and the pilot were located and accounted for following the emergency landing. The San Juan County Sheriff’s Office reported that those injured sustained varying degrees of harm, including head trauma, broken bones, and lacerations. Four passengers required hospitalization for treatment, with one individual listed in critical condition at the time of initial reporting.

Kenmore Air CEO David Gudgel issued a statement prioritizing passenger welfare and commending first responders. “We are grateful that everyone aboard has been accounted for, and our immediate focus is ensuring our passengers and pilot receive the care and support they need,” Gudgel said. The airline pledged full cooperation with investigating authorities and committed to releasing verified updates as the investigation progresses.

A coordinated rescue effort mobilized multiple agencies to the scene, including the U.S. Navy, three air ambulance helicopters, and local fire departments from Orcas Island, Lopez Island, and San Juan Island. Boats and emergency personnel from the San Juan County Parks department also participated in the response. Investigators have not yet determined the cause of the emergency landing and subsequent fire.