GEORGE F. LEE / GLEE@STARADVERTISER.COM
Honolulu firefighters are investigating a damaged cargo building after a plane crashed into the structure near Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu. According to the state Department of Transportation, two people lost their lives when a single-turboprop Cessna Caravan crashed into an abandoned building near the airport this afternoon.
DOT Director Ed Sniffen confirmed that the Kamaka Air training flight had two occupants on board and crashed shortly after taking off from Runway 4-Left. The flight has been identified as Kamaka Air Flight 689, which departed Honolulu at 3:15 p.m. en route to Lanai Airport but failed to reach its destination, according to FlightAware.
Emergency responders confirmed that the two people aboard were deceased upon their arrival at the crash site. Honolulu Fire Department Chief Sheldon Hao stated that the fire from the crash was confined to the exterior of the building and the downed aircraft and was quickly extinguished. Airport firefighters were the first on the scene, followed by HFD and Honolulu Emergency Medical Services.
Hao extended condolences to the Kamaka family, while Jim Ireland, director of Honolulu EMS, noted that the crash occurred just a few blocks from their headquarters. Witnesses reported seeing a small blue-and-white plane pass by a seventh-floor office window before hearing a loud explosion. Heavy black smoke could be seen near the cargo area following the crash.
According to DOT officials, Ualena and Aolele Streets near the airport were closed in response to the incident but were reopened just before 6 p.m. The Federal Aviation Administration and National Transportation Safety Board will lead the investigation into the cause of the crash.
City officials activated the Honolulu Emergency Operations Center in response to the incident. The City’s Department of Emergency Management, the Honolulu Fire Department, and Honolulu Police Department are actively involved in the response.
Governor Josh Green released a statement expressing condolences to the victims' families and emphasizing that all airport facilities remain operational despite road closures near the site of the crash. Green also noted that mental health services are available for those affected by the tragedy through Aloha United Way at 2-1-1.
Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi echoed these sentiments, stating, “This heartbreaking incident reminds us of the dedication and risks taken by those who help keep Hawaii’s essential goods moving. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone impacted by this tragedy during this incredibly difficult time.”
Blangiardi also expressed gratitude for the first responders' quick response and assured that the city would offer support to Kamaka Air and all those impacted by the crash.
0 Comments