2 Killed After Plane Crashes into Building Near Honolulu Airport During Training Flight
The victims have been identified as Hiram deFries and Preston Kaluhiwa
Two people are dead after a plane crashed into a building near the Honolulu Airport.
The Honolulu Fire Department said in a news release that authorities responded just after 3 p.m. local time on Tuesday, Dec. 17, to an "aircraft crash" at 3129 Ualena Street — near the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport.
"The fire was declared under control and extinguished at 3:57 p.m. Sadly, the two souls onboard the aircraft passed away," the department added.
The Federal Aviation Administration said in a report that the plane crashed into a vacant building “shortly after departure” for an “instructional” flight.
The National Transportation Safety Board, which is investigating the crash, said pilots reported control anomalies soon after take-off, according to Hawaii News Now.
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One of the two pilots aboard the Kamaka Air training flight informed air traffic controllers that they were “out of control” moments before impact, FOX affiliate KHON reported.
Family has identified one of the pilots as 22-year-old Hiram deFries of Papakolea, according to ABC affiliate KITV. He graduated from Punahou School in 2020.
The second pilot has been identified as Preston Kaluhiwa, who previously graduated from Kamehameha Schools, KITV reported.
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Gov. Josh Green offered his condolences to those impacted by the crash. “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 said in a statement.
Services have been made available to help those who witnessed the incident “process” they saw, the governor added.
Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi thanked first responders “who swiftly arrived at the scene to provide assistance” on Tuesday, according to KITV. The city, he added, is “ready to support Kamaka Air and all those affected in any way we can.”
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“I am deeply saddened by the tragic plane crash on Oʻahu this afternoon that claimed the lives of two employees of Kamaka Air,” Blangiardi said. “On behalf of the City and County of Honolulu, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of those we lost.”
The mayor added, “This heartbreaking incident reminds us of the dedication and risks taken by those who help keep Hawai‘i’s essential goods moving. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone impacted by this tragedy during this incredibly difficult time.”
Hawaii’s Department of Transportation team “will provide all necessary support to federal officials” as an investigation into the crash is conducted, Green said in his statement.
The cause of the crash “may not be known for some time,” the governor added.
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David Hinderland, Kamaka Air CEO, said in a statement that the company is making itself available to authorities during the investigation, according to Hawaii News Now.
“At this time, we ask for your patience, as you know the urgency of getting correct information that not only offers a clear understanding of what happened, but to assure that the information is handled appropriately,” Hinterland shared.
Kamaka Air did not immediately respond to PEOPLE’s request for comment.
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