Flight Details
The flight departed Honolulu for a local visual flight rules (VFR) flight and was receiving radar advisories. The aircraft climbed to 1,500 feet mean sea level (MSL). Radar data indicated that after takeoff, the aircraft flew in a southeasterly direction along the coast and turned east when it was abeam Diamond Head. Upon approaching Koko Head, the aircraft entered a 450-degree turn to a southerly heading. While in the turn, the aircraft began a descent, then disappeared from the radar scope at about 700 feet MSL. The flight had been airborne for 12 minutes.
Witness Reports
Ground witnesses reported hearing the aircraft fly over their homes before it crashed offshore in ocean waters.
Weather Conditions
Thunderstorms with lightning were reported near the accident area. Several aircraft flight crews confirmed the presence of thunderstorms and lightning. U.S. Navy radar display video photocopies showed the presence of thunderstorms in the accident area. No record was found of the pilot receiving a weather briefing before departing on the accident flight.
Recovery
Search and rescue personnel recovered only two aircraft seats.