‘Pilot’s instructions saved our lives’: WA couple who survived Rottnest seaplane crash break silence

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The sole surviving couple from the Rottnest Island seaplane crash have detailed how their pilot’s safety demonstration on how to open the plane’s emergency exit saved their lives.

Jeremy and Patricia Connor were the only West Australians onboard the Cessna plane when it crashed into the ocean during a scenic tour a week ago, killing Sydney-raised pilot James Wong and two international tourists.

The Connors were among four survivors, with the partners of the international tourists also surviving.

The pair have broken their silence to thank everyone involved in their rescue.

“Our thoughts and deepest sympathy are with our fellow passengers, their families and friends. We will be eternally grateful that ourselves and others were able to reach safety,” they said in a statement.

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“Looking forward, we know that it could have been an even more tragic outcome, and we sincerely hope that everyone can overcome what happened and heal as time goes by.

“Similarly, our thoughts and deepest sympathy are with the pilot, his family, friends and colleagues. We will never forget and will always be grateful that his demonstration of how to open the emergency exit was a critical factor in our survival.”

The Connors also acknowledged the civilian boaters who immediately responded after witnessing the seaplane nosedive into the water, along with paramedics, rangers, police, and staff at Fiona Stanley Hospital.

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