Hiram deFries and Preston Kaluhiwa Obituary and Death: In-Depth Examination of the Fatal Kamaka Air Crash Near Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, Leaving Hawaii Grieving the Loss of Two Young Pilots
Hiram deFries and Preston Kaluhiwa, two promising pilots with bright futures ahead, tragically lost their lives in a devastating plane crash involving a Kamaka Air cargo aircraft near the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu, Hawaii. The crash, which occurred on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, at approximately 3:15 p.m., has left their families, friends, and the entire Hawaiian community heartbroken.
The victims were identified by their grieving families. Hiram deFries, a 22-year-old from Papakolea, was a 2020 graduate of Punahou School and had been training to obtain his pilot’s license. His deep love for aviation was matched only by his dedication to his family and heritage. Preston Kaluhiwa, a graduate of Kamehameha Schools, was another rising star in the aviation world, known for his passion for flying and his commitment to preserving Hawaiian culture. Their untimely deaths have left an indelible mark on Hawaii’s aviation community and beyond.
The Tragic Day: Sequence of Events
The fatal crash unfolded shortly after the small Kamaka Air cargo plane, identified as a Beechcraft 1900, took off from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. The aircraft, which was on a routine training flight, encountered catastrophic issues moments into its ascent. According to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) officials, video footage captured the plane veering sideways at low altitude before crashing into a vacant industrial building and erupting into flames.
Prior to the crash, communication between the pilot and air traffic control painted a harrowing picture of the aircraft’s final moments. The air traffic controller urgently inquired whether the plane was turning right. The pilot’s chilling reply confirmed the gravity of the situation: “We’re out of control.” The controller instructed the pilot to attempt to level the plane and land safely. Tragically, the aircraft crashed seconds later, sending a thick plume of black smoke into the air that could be seen for miles.
Heroic Efforts in the Face of Disaster
Emergency services responded rapidly to the scene, but the intense flames and hazardous conditions hindered their ability to reach the wreckage immediately. Firefighters worked tirelessly to extinguish the blaze and secure the area. Despite their valiant efforts, both pilots were pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities confirmed that Hiram deFries and Preston Kaluhiwa were the only individuals on board the ill-fated aircraft.
The crash site, now marked by charred debris and the remnants of the vacant building, has become a somber reminder of the risks inherent in aviation. FAA and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) officials have launched a comprehensive investigation to determine the cause of the crash, with preliminary findings suggesting a mechanical failure may have been involved. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have vowed to leave no stone unturned in their quest for answers.
The Lives Behind the Names: Remembering Hiram deFries and Preston Kaluhiwa
Hiram deFries: A Rising Star from Papakolea
Hiram deFries was more than just an aspiring pilot; he was a beacon of hope and pride for his family and community. Raised in the Hawaiian homestead of Papakolea, Hiram embodied the values of hard work, resilience, and aloha. A proud graduate of Punahou School’s class of 2020, he excelled academically and pursued his dream of becoming a pilot with unwavering determination.
Hiram’s passion for flying was evident from a young age. Those who knew him recall his fascination with airplanes and his relentless pursuit of knowledge about aviation. Family members described him as a dedicated student and a loving son who always prioritized his loved ones. His humility and kind-hearted nature endeared him to all who crossed his path. Hiram’s loss has left an immeasurable void in the lives of those who loved him and the community that watched him grow.
Preston Kaluhiwa: A Proud Kamehameha Graduate with a Bright Future
Like his co-pilot, Preston Kaluhiwa was a young man with a deep connection to his Hawaiian roots and an unyielding commitment to his aspirations. A graduate of Kamehameha Schools, Preston’s life was marked by his dedication to preserving Hawaiian culture and his passion for aviation. Known for his charisma and generosity, Preston was a natural leader who inspired those around him.
Preston’s journey into aviation was driven by his love for the skies and a desire to make his family proud. He was admired for his work ethic and his ability to balance his professional ambitions with his cultural responsibilities. Friends and family have described him as a “true Hawaiian gentleman,” whose kindness and warmth will never be forgotten. His untimely passing has left a community in mourning and a legacy that will endure for years to come.
The Heartbreak of Kamaka Air
Outside the offices of Kamaka Air, the sorrow was palpable. The sound of wailing and the sight of grieving family members and friends painted a heart-wrenching picture of the tragedy’s impact. Kamaka Air CEO David Hinderland expressed the company’s profound grief in a statement, saying, “It is with heavy hearts that Kamaka Air confirms the loss of two members of the Kamaka Air family in an accident. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families during this unimaginable time.”
Kamaka Air, a local cargo airline with a reputation for excellence, has pledged its full cooperation with the FAA and NTSB investigation. The loss of two young, talented pilots has not only shaken the company but has also underscored the inherent risks faced by those in the aviation industry.
Community Grief and Support
The loss of Hiram deFries and Preston Kaluhiwa has reverberated throughout Hawaii, prompting an outpouring of grief and support from across the islands. Vigils and memorial services are being organized to honor their memory, with friends, family, and community members coming together to celebrate their lives and mourn their untimely deaths.
Social media has been flooded with tributes to Hiram and Preston, with friends sharing memories of their infectious smiles, boundless enthusiasm, and unwavering dedication to their dreams. The Hawaiian community, known for its close-knit bonds, has rallied around the grieving families, offering prayers, financial support, and words of comfort during this incredibly difficult time.
Aviation Safety Under Scrutiny
The Kamaka Air crash has reignited discussions about aviation safety, particularly in the context of training flights and smaller aircraft operations. Experts have emphasized the importance of rigorous maintenance protocols, thorough pilot training, and effective communication between pilots and air traffic control.
As the FAA and NTSB continue their investigation, the focus will be on identifying any systemic issues that may have contributed to the crash. The findings will not only aim to provide closure to the grieving families but also to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
A Lasting Legacy
While the loss of Hiram deFries and Preston Kaluhiwa is immeasurable, their memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved them. Their passion for aviation, dedication to their families, and commitment to their dreams serve as a powerful reminder of the resilience and spirit that define Hawaii’s people.
As the community mourns, there is a collective resolve to ensure that their lives are remembered not just for the tragedy of their passing, but for the joy, inspiration, and hope they brought to those around them. Hiram and Preston’s legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations of young Hawaiians to chase their dreams with the same determination and aloha that defined their lives.
Final Words
The deaths of Hiram deFries and Preston Kaluhiwa in the Kamaka Air crash have left an indelible mark on Hawaii’s aviation community and beyond. As their families, friends, and community come to terms with this devastating loss, the focus remains on celebrating their lives and ensuring that their memory continues to inspire and uplift.
Hiram and Preston’s story is a testament to the power of dreams, the strength of community, and the enduring bond of aloha. May their souls rest in peace, and may their families find comfort in the outpouring of love and support from across the islands and beyond.
