Two killed as plane crashes into building in Hawaii

Two Dead in Kamaka Air Plane Crash Near Honolulu Airport

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Two people were killed in a plane crash near Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu on Tuesday afternoon.

The crash involved a Kamaka Air Cessna Caravan, which took off from Runway 4-Left at approximately 3:15 p.m. The flight, identified as Kamaka Air flight 689, was headed for Lanai Airport but crashed shortly after departure.

The victims, whose identities and ages have not been released, were the only people aboard the aircraft.

The plane crashed into an abandoned building near the airport, which was scheduled for demolition. No one was inside the building at the time of the crash.

Honolulu’s Department of Transportation (DOT) Director, Ed Sniffen, called the incident an “absolute tragedy” but noted that it could have been worse, as the pilot appeared to have made efforts to minimize the impact.

“The pilot did several adjustments to minimize impacts,” Sniffen said, adding that the crash site was near an airport fueling station.

Emergency responders, including Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) and Honolulu Emergency Medical Services (EMS), arrived at the scene shortly after the crash.

HFD Chief Sheldon Hao confirmed the fire from the crash was contained to the exterior of the building and the aircraft, and was quickly extinguished. “Our thoughts and condolences go out to the Kamaka ohana,” Hao said.

The crash occurred just blocks from the EMS headquarters, and responders were on the scene almost immediately.

 

 

 

 

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According to Sniffen, Ualena and Aolele streets near the airport were closed temporarily due to the incident but were reopened around 6 p.m.

Governor Josh Green expressed his condolences, stating, “Jaime’s and my hearts go out to the pilot and passenger and their families, as well as to all who have experienced this traumatic event.”

He added that support services were available for those affected by the crash, and noted that the Department of Transportation would assist federal investigators in determining the cause of the crash.

Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi also offered condolences, stating, “This heartbreaking incident reminds us of the dedication and risks taken by those who help keep Hawaii’s essential goods moving.” He extended gratitude to first responders and assured the city would support Kamaka Air and those impacted.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are investigating the cause of the crash.