Tragic Seaplane Crash Claims Three Lives on Australian Tourist Island

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A seaplane accident occurred off the coast of Rottnest Island, Australia, on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, resulting in the deaths of three passengers, including Swiss and Danish tourists. The crash involved a Cessna 208 Caravan, which was returning to Perth when it went down shortly after takeoff.

Out of the seven individuals onboard, authorities confirmed that only one person emerged uninjured. The deceased included a 65-year-old Swiss woman, a 60-year-old male from Denmark, and the 34-year-old pilot from Perth. The victims' partners survived the incident, as did two local residents who were also on the plane.

Western Australian authorities are investigating the crash's causes, which remain unclear. Preliminary reports suggested that the aircraft may have collided with a rock during takeoff, but this has yet to be confirmed.

Western Australia’s Premier Roger Cook expressed deep sorrow over the incident, noting that Rottnest Island is a beloved tourist destination known for its natural beauty. He described the crash as upsetting, especially given the high season for tourists. Emergency responders and police divers worked swiftly to recover the bodies from the wreckage, which was located at a depth of 8 meters.

Australian Transport Safety Bureau investigators are now looking into the crash to ascertain more details of the tragic event.

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