A small plane carrying seven people crashed into crocodile-infested waters off Broome in Western Australia on Thursday morning, leaving one person injured but all onboard alive, The Australian reported. The aircraft went down in Roebuck Bay, an area known for saltwater crocodiles, raising fears during the rescue operation.
Engine trouble after takeoff
The aircraft, a Cessna 441 Conquest, experienced engine power loss shortly after taking off from Broome Airport around 11:25 a.m., according to the ABC News.Flight data showed the plane went down just minutes after departure while en route to Mungalalu Truscott Airport, located over 400 miles away.
Witnesses describe final moments
Eyewitnesses said the plane was flying unusually low before it began to dip. A local told ABC News that the aircraft appeared to tilt during a turn and then disappeared from view, suggesting something went wrong mid-air.Despite the danger posed by crocodile-infested waters, emergency services responded quickly. Police, marine rescue teams, and ambulance crews rushed to the crash site. A man in his 40s suffered minor head injuries and was airlifted to hospital, while the remaining six people onboard were assessed and treated at the scene, news.com.au and perthnow reported.The Australian Transport Safety Bureau has launched an investigation into the crash. Officials said they will examine the wreckage, gather flight data, and interview the crew, passengers, and witnesses. Authorities have also urged the public to share any footage that could assist the probe.
