Training Aircraft Crashes into Water Near Kalaupapa Airport
A training aircraft crashed into the water while approaching Kalaupapa Airport on Molokai at about 11:40 a.m. Monday, according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
The single-engine Sling LSA, registered to Pacific Flight Academy LLC, reportedly lost control due to gusty wind conditions and became inverted in the water. Two Oahu men were aboard the aircraft; both sustained only minor injuries despite the FAA describing the damage as “substantial.”
Witnesses reported that the occupants swam approximately two miles through open ocean to reach the shore at Kalaupapa National Historical Park. Upon arrival, they were extracted by the Maui Fire Department's Air 50 helicopter.
Emergency personnel assessed the men at the scene, then transported them to Molokai General Hospital for further evaluation.
The FAA is currently investigating the incident. The Sling LSA is designed for flight schools and is known for its predictable handling in training environments.