Horizontal Falls: ATSB investigating float plane crash at popular Kimberley tourist destination

Horizontal Falls is once again in the spotlight after a tourism operator’s aircraft collided with a boat at the iconic Kimberley tourist destination. According to one witness, a Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures aircraft crashed into a tour boat as it attempted to take off from the falls on last Tuesday, May 7. “We were boarding on the jetty watching the plane beside us (take) off,” the witness said. “It got caught in the current and pushed into the boat. (It was) rather a shock as we watched it hit the boat. “The six people were not hurt but the plane propeller and wheel ... put a hole in the panel on the boat. “All planes (were) grounded so we watched as they pulled it out and staff took us for an extended trip to another bay. “All tours were cancelled (but I’m) not sure (for) how long.” Tour company Journey Beyond, who operates Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures, is the same company involved with a major accident at the falls in 2022 which saw 18 people injured and the boat master and Journey Beyond facing criminal charges. A Journey Beyond spokesperson said while navigating in strong tidal movements during taxiing from the Pontoon, the aircraft drifted into the side of the infrastructure. “We are relieved to confirm that no injuries were sustained by the two pilots and six guests on board,” they said. “Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures will look to resume its normal schedule of operations following a full review. “We are fully committed to the safety and well-being of our passengers and crew and will undertake a full investigation, engaging with all relevant authorities, into the events leading up to this incident.” The Australian Transport Safety Bureau was reportedly notified about the accident and said it is gathering information to confirm if further investigation is required. It comes after the State Government announced on March 15 that it would ban passing through the Horizontal Falls by 2028 due to safety concerns surrounding the incident and the wishes of Traditional Owners. The announced closure highlighted the conflicting interests of tourism industry stakeholders and Traditional Owners in the region who want adventure boat touring closed at the falls for safety reasons. More than 5000 people signed a parliamentary petition in late March organised by former Shire of Broome President Harold Tracey to protest the closure. The Tourism Council of WA chief executive Evan Hall and State Liberal Leader Libby Mettam also slammed the decision citing detrimental costs to the local tourism industry.