NTSB Releases Preliminary Report on Seattle Seaplane Accident, Including Witness Accounts

Monday, September 19, 2022 at 09:06 AM ET

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The wreckage was located using side scan sonar, multibeam sonar, and 3D instruments. [Courtesy: University of Washington Applied Physics Laboratory]

Key Takeaways:

The NTSB's preliminary report on the fatal seaplane accident near Seattle, which killed 10, details initial findings on pilot experience, maintenance, and weather conditions.
FAA tracking data indicates the de Havilland DHC-3 Turbine Otter's altitude and airspeed fluctuated significantly before a rapid, near-vertical descent into Mutiny Bay, described by witnesses as "spinning" or "spiraling."
The aircraft had a 100-hour inspection three days prior to the crash addressing recurring airworthiness directives, and while weather was VFR, other pilots reported turbulence in the area.
The wreckage has been located at a depth of 190 feet, and the U.S. Navy is preparing to assist with a complex recovery operation using remotely operated vehicles and a crane.

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The National Transportation Safety Board has released the preliminary report on the fatal seaplane accident near Seattle on Labor Day weekend. The NTSB has reviewed the aircraft’s maintenance records, the experience level of the pilot, and weather at the time of the accident.

Nine adults and one child were onboard the de Havilland DHC-3 Turbine Otter that went down September 4 in Mutiny Bay off Whidbey Island. The aircraft was registered to Northwest Seaplanes, a Part 135 operation. The aircraft was on a flight between Friday Harbor Seaplane Base (W33) and Renton Municipal Airport (KRNT). It was the pilot’s second flight of the day.