Eight individuals were successfully rescued after a seaplane made a hard landing in New York City’s East River on Sunday afternoon. The aircraft came down near the city’s exclusive seaplane terminal, triggering a rapid response from emergency services.
According to the New York City Fire Department, a call was received at 12:01 p.m. reporting a plane in the water near the NY Skyport at East 23rd Street and FDR Drive in Manhattan. Upon arrival, fire crews found the seaplane upright in the water.
All eight people on board were removed safely by FDNY units, after which the aircraft was towed to a nearby dock. Two civilians incurred minor injuries but declined medical attention. No further injuries were immediately reported.
Emergency teams responded promptly after the seaplane incident near the NY Skyport on July 5, 2026. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has begun probing the incident.
The FAA identified the aircraft as a Kodiak 100 seaplane. Sources stated that the pilot executed a hard landing, which resulted in the breaking of a wing strut. The seaplane was en route from East Hampton Airport on Long Island to the Skyport seaplane terminal in Manhattan.
The NY Skyport serves as New York City’s sole seaplane terminal, providing scheduled and charter flights across the Northeast. Investigations by the FAA are underway, with details being subject to updates.
Recordings of the air traffic control captured the pilot’s mayday call preceding the descent into the river. Additional radio communications documented a New York City Police Department helicopter responding to reports of the aircraft.
Images from the scene depicted first responders assisting the aircraft as it remained afloat while aiding the passengers’ evacuation. Further visuals showed the seaplane’s tow towards the dock after the rescue.
The incident generated a significant emergency response along the East River waterfront, involving FDNY marine units and other responders.
Authorities have not disclosed the identities of the pilot or passengers. Investigations continue to ascertain the circumstances that led to the event.
Brittany Miller, a breaking news writer for Fox News Digital, reported the incident.
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Hard Landing of Seaplane in East River