Four Killed in "Flightseeing" Plane Crash Near Ketchikan

A plane crash north of Ketchikan, Alaska killed four Holland America Line patrons on a “flightseeing” tour. Five other Holland America patrons were seriously injured. Three of the five survivors were airlifted to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle and are in critical condition. The plane was operated by SeaWind Aviation.

Victims of the crash include Eric, Christine and (three year old) Trevor Smith of Tualitin, Oregon; David Mayer from Oregon City, Oregon; and Daniel Herron from Irvine, California.

Officials are still investigating the cause of the accident.

There are a number of different reasons this accident could have happened. It could have occurred because of the negligence of the pilot(s). It could have occurred due to a failure to adequately maintain or repair the plane. It could have occurred as a result of a defective product used in the plane’s operation.

Because a number of different causes are possible, it is important in these types of situations to speak with an attorney soon after an accident. Attorneys often hire “accident reconstructionists” to help determine the cause of an accident. Once the information is gathered, attorneys can evaluate and explain the different possible avenues for legal redress. This process is far more effective the sooner an accident victim (or his or her family) contacts an attorney. As time goes on, evidence fades, proving what exactly happened becomes more difficult and mandatory time periods for bringing claims elapse.

Another important note is the role of Holland America Line in this case. Allegedly, the passengers booked the tour independently. However, if evidence surfaces that Holland America Line recommends SeaWind Aviation to its passengers for excursions, or is in some other way connected to it, Holland America also can be liable. Holland America’s potential involvement presents another important reason to contact an attorney as soon as possible–there are strict limitations on claims brought as a result of accidents occurring on Holland America cruises.

For more information on this subject matter, please refer tpo our section on Airline, Cruise, Bus and Other Mass Transit Accidents.