A sea plane crash near Perth, Australia, has claimed the lives of three individuals, including two European tourists and the pilot. The incident occurred on Tuesday near Thomson Bay, close to Rottnest Island, a renowned tourist destination. Authorities have identified the victims as a 65-year-old Swiss woman, a 60-year-old Danish man, and the plane’s 34-year-old Australian pilot. Four other passengers survived the crash and were transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.
According to initial reports, the aircraft plunged into the water shortly after takeoff and quickly submerged. The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) has launched an investigation to determine the cause of the accident. Investigators are currently examining the wreckage and conducting interviews with witnesses to establish a detailed sequence of events.
Western Australia’s Premier, Roger Cook, expressed profound sorrow over the tragedy and extended condolences to the families and friends of the victims. In a statement, he described the incident as "deeply devastating" and assured the public that a thorough investigation would be conducted to uncover the cause and prevent future occurrences.
Rottnest Island, celebrated for its pristine beaches and scenic vistas, is a major attraction for domestic and international tourists alike. The accident has drawn renewed attention to the safety protocols governing sea plane operations, a popular choice for sightseeing and travel in the area. Aviation safety experts have emphasized the importance of rigorous maintenance and operational oversight to mitigate risks associated with such flights.
This heartbreaking event underscores the need for ongoing vigilance in ensuring air travel safety. Investigators are committed to delivering a comprehensive analysis of the crash, providing answers to the grieving families and implementing recommendations to enhance safety standards for small aircraft operations.