Three people still missing after seaplane crashes off Rottnest Island

Three people remain unaccounted for after a seaplane crashed off the coast of Rottnest Island while taking off on Tuesday.

Water Police and several private boats rushed to the scene after the privately owned aircraft crashed into waters near Thomson Bay shortly after take-off about 4pm.

Two RAC rescue helicopters were dispatched to the island and four people were pulled from the water. Police said seven people, including one pilot, were on board the aircraft.

Three people were airlifted to hospital with serious injuries, while the fourth was uninjured.

Police Commissioner Col Blanch said authorities were still working to ascertain details of the incident.

Police believe the plane hit Phillip Rock, about 600 metres from the coastline at the entrance to Thomson Bay, shortly before the crash.

“This is very much an unfolding incident and police have significant resources on the scene, and we are doing everything we can,” Blanch said.

“There have been a number of members of the public who did not hesitate to assist, and I do thank them for their efforts.”

The aftermath of the crash was captured on video by several commuters on board the Rottnest ferry, with images of the plane sinking shared on social media.

Holidaymaker Phil Shepley told WAtoday he heard ambulance sirens in the vicinity of the jetty before watching almost half-a-dozen civilian vessels make their way to the scene to aid in the rescue.

A seaplane has crashed into the water off Rottnest Island.Credit: Nine

“We just saw the tail and the wing floating above the surface,” he said.

“The rescue boat and about four or five civilian vessels got there straight away.

“I was shocked — it was just surreal.”

In a post on X, West Australian Premier Roger Cook said images of the unfolding emergency were “deeply concerning”.

“My thoughts are with those affected, and I want to thank our first responders who are attending to the crash site,” he said.

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