Seaplane Collides with Boat in Vancouver's Coal Harbour, Multiple Hospitalized

A  seaplane collided with a pleasure boat in Vancouver's Coal Harbour near Stanley Park on Saturday, resulting in several people being hospitalized. The incident occurred around 1 p.m. PT and involved a Harbour Air seaplane and a boat, according to the Vancouver Police Department (VPD).

Rescue boats were circling a small plane in the water near Brockton Point in Stanley Park. The VPD stated that "a number of people were on board both the plane and boat," and that "several passengers have been treated for injuries and taken to hospital." However, the exact number of injured individuals has not yet been confirmed, with more details expected as the investigation progresses.

A spokesperson for Harbour Air provided additional information, stating that one of its planes, carrying five passengers on a sightseeing tour, collided with a boat shortly after takeoff from the seaplane terminal. "All five passengers on the aircraft, and the pilot, are uninjured and safe," the spokesperson said. "We have been advised by the local authorities that all passengers on the boat have also been accounted for." Harbour Air is working closely with authorities to support those affected by the collision.

Why It Matters : The collision between the seaplane and the boat highlights the potential risks associated with busy waterways, especially in areas frequented by both recreational and commercial vessels. Coal Harbour is a bustling hub for seaplane operations, serving as the downtown terminal for carriers like Harbour Air and Seair Seaplanes. The incident underscores the importance of stringent safety measures and coordination among various agencies to prevent such accidents and ensure the safety of all individuals involved.

Pat Anson, a tourist from Australia who witnessed the incident, described the scene to CBC News. "We saw two speedboats in front of it, and I am not sure if it hit the speedboat or not, but it sort of jumped in the air and did a nosedive over the top of the speedboats," Anson recounted.

The Joint Rescue Co-Ordination Centre (JRCC) in Victoria received a call about the collision around 12:55 p.m. PT. The Kitsilano Coast Guard station dispatched two vessels, the Laredo Sound and a fast rescue craft, to the scene. "Once on scene, they worked with multiple agencies to respond," the JRCC said. The Vancouver Police Department, Vancouver Fire & Rescue Services, and the Coast Guard were all involved in the rescue efforts.

The Transportation Safety Board of Canada has announced that it is sending a team of investigators to gather information and assess the crash. The investigation will aim to determine the cause of the collision and recommend measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Coal Harbour, known for its scenic views and as a gateway for seaplane tours, is a popular destination for both tourists and locals. The incident has raised concerns about the safety protocols in place for seaplane operations and the need for enhanced vigilance in busy waterways.

Key Takeaways

• A seaplane collided with a pleasure boat in Vancouver's Coal Harbour, resulting in multiple hospitalizations.
• All five passengers and the pilot on the seaplane were uninjured, and all boat passengers were accounted for.
• The incident highlights the risks associated with busy waterways and the importance of safety measures.
• Multiple agencies, including the Coast Guard and Vancouver Police, responded to the scene.
• The Transportation Safety Board of Canada is investigating the crash to determine its cause and prevent future incidents.

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