A seaplane carrying eight people crashed into the East River in New York City on Monday, but all passengers and crew were rescued safely, with only two people sustaining minor injuries.
According to rescue officials, emergency services responded immediately after receiving reports that the aircraft had gone down in the river during the afternoon. Rescue teams quickly reached the scene and found the seaplane floating upright in the water, allowing all eight occupants to be evacuated safely.
Authorities said two people suffered minor injuries in the incident but declined medical treatment after being assessed at the scene. No fatalities or serious injuries were reported.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said the pilot experienced a hard landing, which caused one of the aircraft’s wings to break off before the seaplane came to rest in the river.
Emergency responders secured the area while crews worked to assist passengers and recover the damaged aircraft. Officials praised the swift response of rescue teams, which helped ensure the safe evacuation of everyone on board.
The FAA said an investigation has been launched to determine the exact cause of the accident. Investigators will examine the aircraft, weather conditions, pilot communications and other factors to establish what led to the hard landing.
The incident briefly drew attention from people in the surrounding area as emergency boats and rescue personnel converged on the river. Authorities have not released details about the flight’s origin or destination, nor have they disclosed the identities of those on board.
Seaplanes regularly operate in New York’s waterways for sightseeing tours and charter flights, and such incidents remain relatively uncommon. Aviation officials are expected to release further information once the investigation progresses.
The successful rescue operation ensured that the accident ended without any loss of life, despite the aircraft sustaining significant damage after crashing into the East River.