Five passengers and the pilot have died after a seaplane crashed into a river near Sydney, RTÉ reports.
The seaplane was on a 'wine and dine' sightseeing flight, and they flew over the Hawkesbury River near the suburb of Cowan.
It is unknown why the crash occurred.
According to Australian news outlets, four of the victims were British nationals, though police did not immediately confirm this information.
The Foreign Office in London have been in touch with local authorities Sydney, and consular assistance is at the ready.
Statement from Sydney Seaplanes regarding the aircraft incident at the Hawkesbury River, 31 December 2017
— Sydney Seaplanes (@SydneySeaplanes) 31 December 2017
Today... https://t.co/hgs7c3SjWG
The plane was operated by Sydney Seaplanes, a major tourist airline in the city. They have suspended their flights until further notice.
The airline issued a statement on their Facebook page, saying, "All at Sydney Seaplanes are deeply shocked by this incident and the resulting loss of life.
"We wish to pass on our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the passengers and pilot who were tragically killed. We do not yet know the cause of the accident."
Our deepest sympathies to the families and friends of the victims.
