Incident Overview
The pilot contacted air traffic control (ATC) and reported a rough running engine, followed by an intermittent engine, and finally a complete engine failure. The pilot stated that the aircraft had less than 10 gallons of fuel remaining and that there were three people on board. Shortly after, ATC lost both radio and radar contact with the aircraft.
Witness Account
A pilot flying in the vicinity observed the aircraft inverted in the water. Two victims were recovered from the water, while a third person remains missing.
Pilot Behavior and Fuel Records
A witness reported that the pilot appeared anxious to return to Honolulu. Fueling records indicate that 35.1 gallons of fuel were delivered on May 27. The pilot then conducted a local test flight of approximately one hour. There was no record of a fuel purchase on May 26 or any subsequent fuel purchase.
Prior Incidents
On two previous occasions, the pilot had been forced to make unplanned landings due to low fuel.
The investigation is ongoing. Authorities have not released further details regarding the aircraft or the identities of those involved.