Seaplane Carrying Eight Forced Into Emergency Water Landing Near Manhattan All Eight Aboard Safe After Dramatic

Eight people were safely rescued after a seaplane made a dramatic “hard landing” in New York City’s East River on Sunday, triggering a swift emergency response from the New York City Fire Department (FDNY), police, and other rescue agencies. The incident occurred near the Manhattan Skyport Seaplane Terminal along East 23rd Street and the FDR Drive.

According to the FDNY, the single-engine Kodiak 100 seaplane encountered difficulties while attempting to land on the river shortly after noon local time. Officials said the aircraft struck the choppy water forcefully, causing a wing strut to snap. Although the plane leaned to one side with part of its left wing submerged, it remained upright, allowing rescuers to reach those on board quickly.

Emergency crews, including several FDNY rescue boats and NYPD marine units, responded within minutes. All eight occupants were evacuated safely from the aircraft. Two passengers sustained minor injuries and were evaluated by emergency medical personnel, but no life-threatening injuries were reported. The remaining passengers escaped unharmed.

Eyewitness videos shared on social media showed the white seaplane bobbing in the East River as rescue boats surrounded the aircraft. A police helicopter hovered overhead while emergency responders helped passengers disembark. Following the rescue, the aircraft was stabilized and towed back to the dock near the Skyport terminal.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed it has launched an investigation into the incident. Preliminary information indicates that air traffic control was not providing services to the aircraft at the time of the landing, which is common for many seaplane operations. Investigators will examine the aircraft, weather conditions, and pilot actions to determine what caused the hard landing.

Reports indicate the flight had departed from East Hampton on Long Island before returning to Manhattan. Some passengers were reportedly returning from a family birthday celebration when the aircraft encountered difficulties during its final approach over the river.

The incident comes only weeks after another seaplane mishap in the East River, raising renewed attention to the safety of seaplane operations in New York City’s busy waterways. Despite the alarming nature of Sunday’s emergency, officials praised the rapid response of marine rescue teams, whose actions ensured that all eight occupants were brought to safety without serious injury.