A search and rescue mission in Sydney‘s north this afternoon has recovered three bodies so far, after a sea plane carrying up to six crashed into the Hawkesbury River at Jerusalem Bay, 30 kilometres north of the CBD.
According to NSW Police, the plane crash landed at about 3.15pm today.
The crash landing has been described as a “ditching” by the Australian Transport Safety Bureau, who are investigating the incident. A ‘ditching’ refers to a controlled emergency landing on water.
As rescue divers from Marine Rescue NSW continue to search the scene, the Westpac Rescue Helicopter has reportedly spotted debris and an oil slick on the water.
The plane was operated by Sydney Seaplanes, who offer scenic flights over Sydney tourist attractions and waterways including the Opera House. A spokesman for the company said that they are currently working with police “to make sure that all assistance can be rendered“.
Six people are feared dead in a sea plane crash on the Hawkesbury River. @jessicaridleytv @MyleeHogan #7News pic.twitter.com/ZtXDr18vCZ
— 7NEWS Sydney (@7NewsSydney) December 31, 2017
