Fatal Rottnest Seaplane Crash: ATSB Focuses on Crashworthiness and Stall Alarm.

December 19, 2025 at 03:33 AM•2 min read

The ATSB is focusing its probe into the fatal Rottnest seaplane crash on the Cessna Caravan's crashworthiness and disabled stall warning.

Key Points

1ATSB investigation focuses on the Cessna Caravan's crashworthiness and emergency equipment suitability for water immersion following the fatal January accident.
2Investigators are scrutinizing the disconnected stall warning system circuit breaker, a reported industry practice linked to nuisance alarms causing passenger complaints.
3The seaplane crash resulted in three fatalities (drowning) and four survivors who escaped the submerged cabin with witness assistance.
4The final safety report detailing the findings of the complex investigation is currently scheduled for release in the second half of 2026.

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) has shifted the focus of its investigation into the fatal January 7 seaplane crash off Rottnest Island, Western Australia, centering on the crashworthiness of the Cessna Caravan aircraft. The accident, which occurred shortly after takeoff from Thomson Bay, resulted in the deaths of the 34-year-old pilot and two passengers, while four other passengers managed to escape the submerged aircraft. The ATSB is specifically examining the suitability of the manufacturer and operator’s emergency equipment and procedures for accidents involving water immersion, noting that passenger survival is a key element of the probe.

A critical area of inquiry involves the aircraft's stall warning system. Investigators found the stall warning circuit breaker was disconnected post-accident, and no warning sounds were audible in passenger video footage. The ATSB report flagged a reported industry practice of disconnecting the system due to nuisance alarms that caused passenger concern and distraction. Furthermore, the investigation is scrutinizing the pilot’s judgment regarding wind and sea conditions, the suitability of Thomson Bay for seaplane operations, and the operational procedures used by Swan River Seaplanes.

The ATSB is also reviewing the maintenance history of the specific aircraft, which had been out of service for a significant period before being leased by Swan River Seaplanes. Pathologist reports confirmed the victims died primarily from drowning, with one passenger also sustaining a head injury. The final report detailing the findings and safety recommendations is currently anticipated in the second half of 2026.