Sea plane crash in 2015 - NTSB Report is Out

[babs135]

Today I took a float plane from Victoria to Vancouver and noticed they were stricter in regards to baggage. Not only did they weigh my purse (3lbs) but we were not permitted to have them on our laps as previous. The check in clerk said they were told to be more stringent with the rules. Don't know if this is a coincidence or due to the crash.

 

DH and I took this flight way back in 2004 and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. However, the point I'd like to make is that somewhat naively it didn't occur to me that take off and landing could be affected by the weather involving the waves! I just assumed (stupidly perhaps) that it would be like taking off from a runway.

 

What would have happened if the sea was considered too choppy?

[DaveOKC]

We were on the Star Princess and left on a float plane/cruise at about the same time from Promech Air as the flight that crashed. Our pilot made a point heading out that we were going to stay at a low altitude and away from the mountains due to the weather. He apologized that we wouldn't be seeing any mountain goats and stay mostly over water. Great decision!

 

After our 30-45 minute flight, we were dropped off for a 2.5 hour catamaran cruise back to Ketchikan. After an hour, our boat captain advised we were being asked to go into Princess Bay to investigate an emergency signal, as we were the closest vessel at the time. We were asked to look for anything unusual. After an hour, we were released as a helicopter was now searching. On our way back, we saw a Coast Guard vessel heading in that direction.

 

It wasn't until we were back on the ship, did I see on CNN what had happened. It was a bit unnerving after learning the plane came from the same operator, at about the same time. But more sad for all those affected. Prayers to their families and loved ones.

 

Was the flight worth it considering the weather conditions? Ours was fantastic, but it was a clear day.

[Pathfinder1964]

My family and I were passengers on the Westerdam when this tragedy happened. We had been considering taking a flying excursion (grandson is working on his small plane pilot's license) but the weather was not good, to say the least. It was windy, rainy and foggy when we docked and we decided to just shop and enjoy walking all around Ketchikan instead. So glad we did.

 

I must also say how wonderful HAL was during the unraveling of this tragedy. When it was obvious we weren't leaving as planned, we thought it was late arrivals back to the ship (one lady actually was as we saw her walking up the gangway and being escorted by an officer....family member??). The PA announced a few names and asked them to call the front desk immediately at first but soon that stopped and we heard nothing more for awhile. The next announcement came from the Captain and he informed us about a scenic plane excursion having gone down and that "the Coast Guard has located the wreckage and is enroute". At first I thought that meant it crashed into the water and I was hopeful for survivors. The next announcement he made was that the plane had crashed into a cliff but no further information was available and that he would keep us informed as more information was made available. Then I thought chances are all have been lost, which unfortunately was true and our Captain made that announcement later.

 

The mood of the ship was so sad and somber after the announcement, even the normally happy and smiling crew were putting on a brave face for all but they too were hurting. The Captain announced that the phone lines and Internet would all be free that night so we could notify our loved ones that we were OK and he encouraged us to call them.

 

A beautiful Memorial Service was held the next morning at 10AM in the Vista Lounge for all who were lost. Standing room only, upstairs and downstairs! It was led by the Chaplain who explained that Holland America is the only cruise line who has a Chaplain onboard all of their ships during cruises and we were so glad that he was there to offer his comforting words. One of the cast singers sang 2 beautiful and moving songs, "How Great Thou Art" and "Amazing Grace". Many wept.

 

As tragic and unexpected as this event was, strangely, for the rest of our cruise people seemed more friendly and caring towards each other. You could feel it. You could see it.

 

We arrived home late last night after a long 5 hour flight from Seattle and a couple hour drive from the Atlanta airport. I am still thinking about it all and I still hurt for all 8 of our fellow passengers and also the pilot and all of their families having to deal with their losses.

 

Hug and love your families every chance you get!

Edited June 29, 2015 by Pathfinder1964

[RuthC]

Pathfinder1964, thank you so much for giving us your account. It must have been so difficult to continue the cruise.

Welcome home.

[kazu]

Thank you so much for your moving account of the events on board and your experiences Pathfinder. It must have been a very difficult time for everyone.

[Lizzie68]

My family and I were passengers on the Westerdam when this tragedy happened. We had been considering taking a flying excursion (grandson is working on his small plane pilot's license) but the weather was not good, to say the least. It was windy, rainy and foggy when we docked and we decided to just shop and enjoy walking all around Ketchikan instead. So glad we did.

 

I must also say how wonderful HAL was during the unraveling of this tragedy. When it was obvious we weren't leaving as planned, we thought it was late arrivals back to the ship (one lady actually was as we saw her walking up the gangway and being escorted by an officer....family member??). The PA announced a few names and asked them to call the front desk immediately at first but soon that stopped and we heard nothing more for awhile. The next announcement came from the Captain and he informed us about a scenic plane excursion having gone down and that "the Coast Guard has located the wreckage and is enroute". At first I thought that meant it crashed into the water and I was hopeful for survivors. The next announcement he made was that the plane had crashed into a cliff but no further information was available and that he would keep us informed as more information was made available. Then I thought chances are all have been lost, which unfortunately was true and our Captain made that announcement later.

 

The mood of the ship was so sad and somber after the announcement, even the normally happy and smiling crew were putting on a brave face for all but they too were hurting. The Captain announced that the phone lines and Internet would all be free that night so we could notify our loved ones that we were OK and he encouraged us to call them.

 

A beautiful Memorial Service was held the next morning at 10AM in the Vista Lounge for all who were lost. Standing room only, upstairs and downstairs! It was led by the Chaplain who explained that Holland America is the only cruise line who has a Chaplain onboard all of their ships during cruises and we were so glad that he was there to offer his comforting words. One of the cast singers sang 2 beautiful and moving songs, "How Great Thou Art" and "Amazing Grace". Many wept.

 

As tragic and unexpected as this event was, strangely, for the rest of our cruise people seemed more friendly and caring towards each other. You could feel it. You could see it.

 

We arrived home late last night after a long 5 hour flight from Seattle and a couple hour drive from the Atlanta airport. I am still thinking about it all and I still hurt for all 8 of our fellow passengers and also the pilot and all of their families having to deal with their losses.

 

Hug and love your families every chance you get!

 

Thank you so much for this report. It brought tears to my eyes and my heart aches for the families. So glad to read that everyone became more friendly and caring towards one another.

[Tampa Girl]

That would be wonderful if cruise lines had better cancellation policies - Going out to sea in the face of a hurricane should be something cruise lines allow for full refund too.

 

Wonder when cruise lines might get more responsible when making decisions at sea - or excursions - or during health crisis.

 

Maybe someday cruise lines and airlines won't make sick people participate or lose their cash.

 

When cruise lines or airlines decide to change or cancel a flight, they make it seem like not big deal - We want to make a change & big penalties

 

Come on guys - give folks a break to not head off in dangerous weather.

 

Do you have some reason to believe that they were not given the opportunity to cancel w/o penalty? We were allowed to cancel in Cozumel when the weather turned too rough for a sailing excursion.

[POA1]

Hug and love your families every chance you get!

 

Thanks for your first hand report. It means a lot.

[Lockport Bob]

Agreed Pathfinder. We too were on the Westerdam last week and with the exception of opening the casino on Thursday night thought HAL handled it with dignity, respect and grace.

[Copper10-8]

My family and I were passengers on the Westerdam when this tragedy happened. We had been considering taking a flying excursion (grandson is working on his small plane pilot's license) but the weather was not good, to say the least. It was windy, rainy and foggy when we docked and we decided to just shop and enjoy walking all around Ketchikan instead. So glad we did.

 

I must also say how wonderful HAL was during the unraveling of this tragedy. When it was obvious we weren't leaving as planned, we thought it was late arrivals back to the ship (one lady actually was as we saw her walking up the gangway and being escorted by an officer....family member??). The PA announced a few names and asked them to call the front desk immediately at first but soon that stopped and we heard nothing more for awhile. The next announcement came from the Captain and he informed us about a scenic plane excursion having gone down and that "the Coast Guard has located the wreckage and is enroute". At first I thought that meant it crashed into the water and I was hopeful for survivors. The next announcement he made was that the plane had crashed into a cliff but no further information was available and that he would keep us informed as more information was made available. Then I thought chances are all have been lost, which unfortunately was true and our Captain made that announcement later.

 

The mood of the ship was so sad and somber after the announcement, even the normally happy and smiling crew were putting on a brave face for all but they too were hurting. The Captain announced that the phone lines and Internet would all be free that night so we could notify our loved ones that we were OK and he encouraged us to call them.

 

A beautiful Memorial Service was held the next morning at 10AM in the Vista Lounge for all who were lost. Standing room only, upstairs and downstairs! It was led by the Chaplain who explained that Holland America is the only cruise line who has a Chaplain onboard all of their ships during cruises and we were so glad that he was there to offer his comforting words. One of the cast singers sang 2 beautiful and moving songs, "How Great Thou Art" and "Amazing Grace". Many wept.

 

As tragic and unexpected as this event was, strangely, for the rest of our cruise people seemed more friendly and caring towards each other. You could feel it. You could see it.

 

We arrived home late last night after a long 5 hour flight from Seattle and a couple hour drive from the Atlanta airport. I am still thinking about it all and I still hurt for all 8 of our fellow passengers and also the pilot and all of their families having to deal with their losses.

 

Hug and love your families every chance you get!

 

Thanks very much! Take care!

[Himself]

My family and I were passengers on the Westerdam when this tragedy happened. We had been considering taking a flying excursion (grandson is working on his small plane pilot's license) but the weather was not good, to say the least. It was windy, rainy and foggy when we docked and we decided to just shop and enjoy walking all around Ketchikan instead. So glad we did.

 

I must also say how wonderful HAL was during the unraveling of this tragedy. When it was obvious we weren't leaving as planned, we thought it was late arrivals back to the ship (one lady actually was as we saw her walking up the gangway and being escorted by an officer....family member??). The PA announced a few names and asked them to call the front desk immediately at first but soon that stopped and we heard nothing more for awhile. The next announcement came from the Captain and he informed us about a scenic plane excursion having gone down and that "the Coast Guard has located the wreckage and is enroute". At first I thought that meant it crashed into the water and I was hopeful for survivors. The next announcement he made was that the plane had crashed into a cliff but no further information was available and that he would keep us informed as more information was made available. Then I thought chances are all have been lost, which unfortunately was true and our Captain made that announcement later.

 

The mood of the ship was so sad and somber after the announcement, even the normally happy and smiling crew were putting on a brave face for all but they too were hurting. The Captain announced that the phone lines and Internet would all be free that night so we could notify our loved ones that we were OK and he encouraged us to call them.

 

A beautiful Memorial Service was held the next morning at 10AM in the Vista Lounge for all who were lost. Standing room only, upstairs and downstairs! It was led by the Chaplain who explained that Holland America is the only cruise line who has a Chaplain onboard all of their ships during cruises and we were so glad that he was there to offer his comforting words. One of the cast singers sang 2 beautiful and moving songs, "How Great Thou Art" and "Amazing Grace". Many wept.

 

As tragic and unexpected as this event was, strangely, for the rest of our cruise people seemed more friendly and caring towards each other. You could feel it. You could see it.

 

We arrived home late last night after a long 5 hour flight from Seattle and a couple hour drive from the Atlanta airport. I am still thinking about it all and I still hurt for all 8 of our fellow passengers and also the pilot and all of their families having to deal with their losses.

 

Hug and love your families every chance you get!

 

Thanks for sharing your experiences. People ask what a Chaplain does and I say it varies.

[serendipity1499]

Pathfinder.. Thank you so much for your moving account of the tragedy.. It brought tears to my eyes.. It must have been very sad for everyone.. Our thoughts & prayers continue for those who were lost as well as their families, friends, their fellow Psgrs & Crew who were on the ship with you..

[serendipity1499]

That would be wonderful if cruise lines had better cancellation policies - Going out to sea in the face of a hurricane should be something cruise lines allow for full refund too.

 

Wonder when cruise lines might get more responsible when making decisions at sea - or excursions - or during health crisis.

 

Maybe someday cruise lines and airlines won't make sick people participate or lose their cash.

 

When cruise lines or airlines decide to change or cancel a flight, they make it seem like not big deal - We want to make a change & big penalties

 

Come on guys - give folks a break to not head off in dangerous weather.

 

Were you there? How do you know that they were not given the chance to cancel?

 

We've booked excursions on HAL & been permitted to cancel when I was sick on my last cruise!.. Placing the blame on the cruise line before the facts are in is shameful, especially when made by someone who was not on the ship..

[SJSULIBRARIAN]

I did not realize that HAL was the only cruise line that had a chaplain on every cruise. Pathfinder 1964's description of how the Westerdam handled the tragedy is truly moving and makes me think more highly of HAL.

[sjn911]

Well said. I heard about the incident this morning at 0300 while listening to the BBC. It sent a shiver down my spine. I did this excursion in Sept., with the involved excursion company. Our pilot was an absolute pro. It was a blue sky day for the entire area, which was very unusual. For those that haven't been, it can be clear in one spot and raining sideways 10 miles away. Alaska weather changes by the minute.

 

Give a thought and prayer to the brave Search and Rescue personnel that answered the call. They scrambled for a mission in treacherous conditions to risk their lives to help people they didn't know. They got to the scene and realized there was nothing that could be done. They'll risk their lives again to make the recovery, to give the grieving families the closure of being able to give their lost loved-ones a proper burial.

 

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.

Just catching up here...beautiful post. I live/have lived in different mountain places here in Montana, USA where weather changes pretty quickly...the most at a 6000 foot ranch. Have not been to Alaska yet and with marine influence and mountains together..I can not even imagine how quickly it can be "trouble".

 

But we all have to live and experience..prayers to all involved continue...it is just so very hard.

 

God bless all chaplains, doctors, emergency personnel, all at HAL and especially the service staff, and all first responders and thank you to Pathfinder 1964 for your beautiful words.

Edited June 29, 2015 by sjn911

[InTheWASide]

Not sure if anyone posted this or not:

http://www.travelweekly.com/Cruise-Travel/Holland-America-suspends-sales-of-Promech-flightseeing-tour

 

Here's the content:

Holland America Line has suspended excursions with Promech Air, the operator of a float plane that crashed last week in Alaska’s Misty Fjord with eight HAL passengers aboard.

 

Promech’s DeHavilland DHC-3 Otter turboprop went down for unknown reasons on June 25 during a flightseeing trip. The crash killed the eight guests from HAL’s Westerdam ship and the Promech pilot.

HAL said it has suspended sales of that flightseeing tour operated by Promech out of Ketchikan. It said it continues to offer other flightseeing excursions in various Alaskan ports with other operators.

 

Guests on HAL's Alaska cruises this week are being allowed to cancel any scheduled flightseeing tour with any operator for any reason and receive a full refund, said a HAL spokeswoman.

 

Promech Air says on its website it is the largest air taxi operator in southern Southeast Alaska. In a statement released after the crash, Promech said, "We are incredibly distressed by this situation, and our thoughts and prayers are with those onboard the plane and their families.”

 

Investigators for the National Transportation Safety Board arrived at the crash site about 25 miles northeast of Ketchikan over the weekend. The agency’s Alaska chief, Clint Johnson, said it would take a full year before the NTSB publishes a final report about the cause of the crash and months before initial indications are released.

[lcand1923]

Thank you, Pathfinder1964, for posting your account.

 

When I heard on the radio that a floatplane had crashed out of Ketchikan I thought, "I wonder if it was HAL's Misty Fjord excursion?" I am way behind in organizing my pictures from Alaska June 2014 and had just finished doing the Misty Fjord Floatplane excursion. My excursion was supposed to include the floatplane and sail portion. The sail portion was cancelled due to the bad weather we experienced that day, but the floatplane portion took place. The pilot modified our route to keep us over water for the entire trip.

 

How quickly things can change for each of us.

[IRL_Joanie]

Not sure if anyone posted this or not:

http://www.travelweekly.com/Cruise-Travel/Holland-America-suspends-sales-of-Promech-flightseeing-tour

 

Here's the content:

 

Thank you for this link. It is good to see how HAL is and as responded in such a timely manner.

 

My thanks to the Posters above this one who not only shared their first hand experiences with us, but also to those posters who've come together over this heartbreaking tragedy.

 

I do have to specifically thank RuthC, and especially Lizzie68 for her final words, they are so fitting at this time, for their thoughtfulness. As you can see, they say in just a few words what it takes me a book to write/type.

 

God Bless everyone!!

 

Joanie

Edited June 29, 2015 by IRL_Joanie

[marym933]

The Misty Fjords flight seeing is still listed on the excursion list of our July 19 Oosterdam cruise. New vendors?

[Folk Singer]

So Sad my thought and prayers goes out to the families and friends.

[RandyinDEN]

Thank you for that update. We were on the Noordam and were informed of the tragedy at dinner by the wait staff. It seemed that all the staff knew what happened and dinner was a little bit somber.

[bac32708]

Was the flight worth it considering the weather conditions? Ours was fantastic, but it was a clear day.

 

Our flight was not bad, but the pilot was also very cautious, making note that he was staying away from the mountains and flying a more circuitous route. Our 30 min. trip was closer to 45 min. We actually had sunshine for brief moments in the air. The weather was worse in Ketchikan than in the fjords. Was it worth it? We enjoyed the flight, but once we learned what happened to another plane up at the same time, it was a very sobering experience. Nothing about the flight caused us to question whether or not we should be up there. Remember, we don't know the cause of the accident and it may come down to something else other than weather.

[Keith1010]

Very sad.

 

Keith

[sjn911]

Very sad.

 

Keith

 

Well said...your kindness/experience around here is real...just wanted to say that for all who may not know...thanks for helping good dreams.

 

It is nice to have this thread to check into for a moment and just pray or send a good thought to those affected or just care. It is a virtual place we are all leaving a flower...and heart...it helps in a tiny way..I think..Sarah

[Lulubelle45]

Bittersweet seeing the Westerdam in Victoria this evening. Hard to believe it was over a week ago now. Hope all effected are finding some comfort