Authorities have reported a tragic incident involving a small cargo plane that crashed shortly after takeoff from Honolulu’s Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. The plane, a single-engine Cessna 208 operated by Kamaka Air, was on a training flight when it lost control and crashed into a vacant building at approximately 3:15 p.m. on Tuesday. Unfortunately, both pilots onboard were killed in the crash.
In audio recordings obtained from the control tower, moments before the crash, the pilots communicated that they were losing control of the aircraft. Despite attempts by the control tower to guide them to a safe landing, the plane veered sideways before colliding with the building, resulting in a significant fire that produced a large plume of smoke.
Kamaka Air’s CEO, David Hinderland, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the two pilots, whose names have yet to be officially released. However, family members have identified one of the pilots as Hiram Defries, a young graduate from Punahou School, while the other pilot has been identified as Preston Kaluhiwa, a Kamehameha Schools graduate.
The plane was reportedly en route to Lanai Airport in Maui County, with Kamaka Air known for providing freight delivery services. Fortunately, there were no additional injuries reported as a result of the crash. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board are set to conduct an investigation into the incident.
This tragic accident highlights the risks involved in aviation training. As investigators work to determine the cause, it’s crucial to remember the dedication and passion pilots have for their profession and the measures taken to ensure safety in the skies. While this incident is heartbreaking, it reinforces the importance of rigorous training and adherence to safety protocols in aviation, with a hopeful outlook for future improvements in training practices and air safety regulations.
In summary, the crash of Kamaka Air Flight 689 during a training mission resulted in the tragic loss of two young pilots, prompting investigations by authorities to uncover the circumstances surrounding the incident.