Seaplane Makes Emergency Landing in NYC’s East River

A seaplane made a hard landing in New York City’s East River, leading to the rescue of eight people on Sunday afternoon. The incident took place near the city’s sole seaplane terminal, prompting swift emergency responses from local firefighters.

The New York City Fire Department reported receiving an emergency call at 12:01 p.m. concerning a plane in the water close to the NY Skyport at East 23rd Street and FDR Drive in Manhattan. Upon arrival, fire crews found the seaplane upright in the water and successfully removed all eight passengers before towing the aircraft to a nearby dock.

Two passengers sustained minor injuries but declined medical assistance at the scene. No other injuries were reported. The aircraft involved was identified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as a Kodiak 100 seaplane. The pilot had executed a hard landing, resulting in a snapped wing strut.

“We are investigating the incident,” said the FAA, noting that the released information is preliminary and might change.

The seaplane had departed from East Hampton Airport on Long Island, destined for the Skyport seaplane terminal in Manhattan. The terminal serves both scheduled and charter flights across the Northeast.

Audio recordings from air traffic control revealed the pilot issuing a mayday call before the landing. Radio communications also documented a New York City Police Department helicopter responding to the emergency.

Authorities have not disclosed the identities of the pilot or passengers, nor have they clarified the cause of the landing. Video footage from the scene showed first responders working around the upright-floating seaplane to conduct the rescue. Subsequent recordings depicted the aircraft being towed to the dock post-rescue.

The situation triggered a substantial emergency response, with FDNY marine units and other responders flocking to the East River waterfront. The FAA referred inquiries about the passengers on board to local authorities.