A tragic plane crash near Honolulu’s Daniel K. Inouye International Airport on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, claimed the lives of two young pilots. The small aircraft, operated by Kamaka Air, crashed into a vacant building shortly after takeoff during an instructional flight. The incident has sent shockwaves through the aviation community and prompted an investigation by federal authorities.
The Honolulu Fire Department responded to the crash scene at 3129 Ualena Street around 3 p.m. local time. Firefighters quickly brought the blaze under control, extinguishing it by 3:57 p.m. However, tragically, both individuals onboard the aircraft perished in the accident.
Preliminary reports from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) indicate that the plane was on an instructional flight when it went down shortly after departure. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched an investigation to determine the cause of the crash. Early reports suggest that the flight crew experienced control anomalies shortly after taking off, leading to the devastating outcome.
Chilling details have emerged from air traffic control recordings, with one of the pilots reporting a loss of control moments before impact. This desperate communication underscores the rapid and unexpected nature of the tragedy.
The victims have been identified as 22-year-old Hiram deFries of Papakolea and Preston Kaluhiwa. DeFries, a 2020 graduate of Punahou School, was remembered by friends and family as a passionate aviator with a bright future. Kaluhiwa, a Kamehameha Schools graduate, was also mourned by loved ones. Both young men were embarking on promising careers in aviation, making the loss all the more heartbreaking.
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Following the devastating news, condolences poured in from local officials and community members. Hawaii Governor Josh Green expressed his deepest sympathies to the families and friends of the victims, acknowledging the profound impact of the tragedy. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi praised the swift response of first responders and offered support to Kamaka Air and all those affected.
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In the wake of the accident, services have been made available to provide counseling and support for witnesses who may be struggling to process the traumatic event. The city of Honolulu has pledged its full support to Kamaka Air and the families of the victims.
Kamaka Air CEO David Hinderland released a statement expressing the company’s deep sorrow and cooperation with authorities in the ongoing investigation. The company emphasized its commitment to providing accurate information as it becomes available and ensuring that it is handled with sensitivity and respect. The cause of the crash remains under investigation, and authorities caution that it may take time to determine the exact sequence of events that led to the tragedy.
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The Honolulu plane crash serves as a somber reminder of the inherent risks associated with aviation. As investigators work tirelessly to unravel the cause of the accident, the community mourns the loss of two promising young pilots whose lives were tragically cut short. The incident also highlights the importance of ongoing safety protocols and rigorous training within the aviation industry.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Honolulu Plane Crash
What caused the Honolulu plane crash?
The cause of the crash is still under investigation by the NTSB. Preliminary reports suggest control anomalies shortly after takeoff.
Who were the victims of the crash?
The two victims were pilots Hiram deFries and Preston Kaluhiwa.
What type of plane was involved in the crash?
The aircraft was a small plane operated by Kamaka Air for instructional flights.
Where did the plane crash occur?
The plane crashed into a vacant building near the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu.
What is Kamaka Air doing in response to the crash?
Kamaka Air is cooperating fully with the investigation and offering support to the families of the victims.
