No fatalities

Bounced Landing and Gear Collapse Lead to Aircraft Write-Off at Honolulu (N4953N)

Honolulu, United States of AmericaLanding (descent or approach)

On February 19, 1968, a De Havilland DH.104 Dove (registration N4953N) operated by Hawaiian Air Tour Service (HATS) was involved in an aviation accident near Honolulu, United States of America during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Improper recovery from bounced landing. The pilot's vision was limited due the windshield wipers inoperative in heavy rain falls. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

A nighttime approach in poor weather resulted in a bounced landing and gear collapse. The aircraft slid on the runway and was written off; all 13 occupants evacuated safely.

Accident Overview

An aircraft conducting an approach to Honolulu experienced a bounced landing during nighttime operations in poor weather conditions, characterized by low clouds and heavy rainfall. The crew failed to regain control after the landing gear collapsed, causing the aircraft to slide along the runway before coming to rest. The aircraft sustained substantial damage and was subsequently written off. All 13 occupants on board evacuated safely.

Weather Conditions

The approach was performed at night under poor weather conditions with low clouds and heavy rain showers. These conditions contributed to reduced visibility.

Sequence of Events

Upon touchdown, the aircraft bounced. The crew attempted to recover but lost control as the landing gear collapsed. The aircraft then slid on the runway and came to a stop.

Evacuation

All 13 occupants were evacuated safely from the aircraft without reported injuries.

Investigation Findings

The official investigation identified the probable cause as an improper recovery from a bounced landing. Additionally, the pilot's vision was limited because the windshield wipers were inoperative in the heavy rain.