AMP Article

Floatplane catches fire after emergency landing near Sucia Island

Published July 24, 2026 · Updated July 24, 2026 · By Thomas Taylor - cybersecarmor.com

Foto : Thomas Taylor - cybersecarmor.com

Emergency Landing Turns to Fire as Kenmore Air Floatplane Carries Passengers to Safety

Incident Overview and Immediate Response

Cybersecarmor.com – On July 23, 2026, a dramatic aviation incident unfolded in the waters surrounding Washington state's San Juan Islands when a Kenmore Air floatplane executed an emergency landing and subsequently caught fire. The aircraft, carrying eleven individuals, touched down in Shallow Bay near Sucia Island before flames engulfed portions of the plane. Emergency crews from multiple jurisdictions mobilized quickly to assist those aboard, with the U.S. Coast Guard coordinating the extensive rescue operation.

According to the Coast Guard Sector of Puget Sound, officials received their initial report approximately 5:25 p.m. local time regarding the seaplane's emergency situation. The agency confirmed in a statement posted on X that all eleven people on board were accounted for following the incident. Multiple rescue assets from the United States, Canada, and local communities were deployed to the scene to provide assistance and medical support.

Flight Details and Aircraft Information

Kenmore Air identified the aircraft involved in the incident as a de Havilland DHC-3 Otter, a versatile twin-engine floatplane well-suited for the region's waterways. The flight originated from Lake Union in Seattle and was en route to Roche Harbor on San Juan Island when the emergency occurred at 5:15 p.m. local time. The airline confirmed that the plane consisted of ten passengers and one pilot, all of whom were safely accounted for following the incident.

The aircraft was reported to be resting against rocks on Sucia Island after the emergency landing and subsequent fire. Coast Guard environmental response personnel collaborated with partner agencies to evaluate any potential ecological impacts resulting from the incident. The timing of events suggests the fire broke out shortly after the plane came to rest in the bay waters.

Injuries and Medical Transport

Several individuals sustained injuries during the incident, with the San Juan County Sheriff's Office reporting that injuries ranged from head trauma to broken bones and lacerations. At least one person was placed in critical condition and required urgent medical attention. The injured passengers were distributed among multiple medical facilities for appropriate treatment.

Two passengers were transported to medical facilities in Bellingham, Washington, while two others were taken to Orcas Island within the San Juan Islands for evaluation and care. The coordinated medical response demonstrated the effectiveness of regional emergency services in handling aviation incidents in remote locations.

Investigation and Recovery Efforts

Kenmore Air activated its emergency response procedures immediately following the incident and has been working closely with the Coast Guard and local emergency responders. The responding agencies included the Coast Guard, San Juan Island Fire and Rescue, Orcas Island Fire and Rescue, Lopez Island Fire and Rescue, San Juan County Parks, and the San Juan County Sheriff's Office.

The National Transportation Safety Board confirmed to USA TODAY that it was investigating the incident, and the Federal Aviation Administration is also conducting its own inquiry. The cause of the accident has not yet been determined and remains under investigation. Both agencies will examine flight data, witness statements, and physical evidence from the scene to determine what led to the emergency landing and fire.

Company Background and Regional Context

David Gudgel, CEO of Kenmore Air, issued a statement expressing gratitude that everyone aboard was accounted for. He emphasized that the company's immediate priority was ensuring passengers and the pilot received necessary care and support. Gudgel noted that Kenmore Air is fully cooperating with investigators as they work to understand the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Founded in 1946, Kenmore Air holds the distinction of being the largest seaplane airline in the United States. The company transports more than 90,000 passengers annually through scheduled, scenic, and charter flights, according to its news release and official website. The airline has maintained a strong presence in the Pacific Northwest for nearly eight decades.

Sucia Island forms part of the San Juan Islands archipelago, a popular boating and tourism destination situated in northwest Washington near the United States-Canada border. The San Juan Islands lie between Washington state and Canada's Vancouver Island, creating a scenic corridor that attracts visitors from around the world. The region's calm waters and stunning landscapes make it an ideal setting for seaplane operations and recreational activities.

"This evening one of our aircraft was involved in an accident near Sucia Island. 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," Kenmore Air CEO David Gudgel said, adding that the company is "fully cooperating" with investigators.

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