Accident Details
During a cruise phase of a tour flight over the Island of Hawaii, both engines lost power, leading the pilot to ditch the airplane in the ocean. The airplane sank in approximately 150 feet of water and was not recovered. The flight's purpose was a sightseeing tour of the island.
Approximately one hour into the flight, after transitioning through Hilo's airspace, the pilot observed fluctuations in both engines accompanied by a gradual loss of power. Emergency procedures were initiated, including advancing the mixtures, throttles, and propellers, but no change occurred. The pilot also switched to the auxiliary fuel tanks, with similar results; both engines continued to lose power and eventually ceased operation.
Emergency Response
The pilot briefed the passengers on ditching procedures and opened the emergency exit door. The airplane was landed straight ahead. The pilot chose to land in the ocean due to calm and smooth ocean conditions. After ditching, the pilot and passengers extricated themselves from the airplane.
Fuel Status
The airplane had been refueled the night before with 44 gallons of fuel. The estimated fuel on board prior to departure was 75 gallons. Passengers later confirmed that both engines quit. No unresolved mechanical anomalies with the airplane were identified prior to the accident flight.
Aftermath
The airplane was not recovered from the ocean. No further information about the cause of the power loss is available.