No fatalities

Aircraft Ditched Off Upolu, Hawaii Island, After Engine Failure (N35310)

Upolu, United States of AmericaFlight

On April 27, 1976, a De Havilland DHC-3 Otter (registration N35310) operated by Horizon Air Service was involved in an aviation accident near Upolu, United States of America in flight. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Powerplant failure for undetermined reasons. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary report: the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive (1962-1981)Updated 2026-09-03Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft ditched off Upolu, Hawaii Island, after an engine failure en route from Kamuela to Honolulu. Both occupants were rescued, but the aircraft sank and was not recovered.

Incident Overview and Location Details The incident occurred while the aircraft was en route from Kamuela to Honolulu. During the flight, the engine failed, prompting the pilot to reduce altitude and ditch the aircraft off Upolu, on the north coast of Hawaii Island. ## Occupant Outcome and Aircraft Recovery Both occupants were rescued following the ditching. The aircraft sank and was not recovered. ## Official Probable Cause The official investigation determined the probable cause to be a powerplant failure for undetermined reasons. No further details regarding the aircraft type, registration, operator, or specific date were provided in the source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 27 Apr 1976 De Havilland DHC-3 Otter accident near Upolu, United States of America?

An aircraft ditched off Upolu, Hawaii Island, after an engine failure en route from Kamuela to Honolulu. Both occupants were rescued, but the aircraft sank and was not recovered.

Were there any fatalities in the 27 Apr 1976 De Havilland DHC-3 Otter accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 27 Apr 1976 involved a De Havilland DHC-3 Otter, registration N35310, operated by Horizon Air Service, at Upolu, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Powerplant failure for undetermined reasons.