Aloha Island Air Flight 1712, a Twin Otter 300, was on a scheduled commuter flight from Hilo to Kalaupapa, Hawaii. The aircraft, carrying 17 passengers and 3 crew members, took off amid worsening weather conditions. Despite being equipped to handle short regional flights, the Twin Otter encountered significant weather challenges as it ascended. Less than 15 minutes into the flight, the pilots reported difficulties maintaining altitude. Witnesses later described a sudden descent of the aircraft before it crashed into a wooded terrain on the northern side of Molokai, near the Kalaupapa National Historical Park. Rescue teams were dispatched, but no survivors were found, marking a devastating loss for the local community.

The crash underscored the challenges faced by regional airlines operating in Hawaii, where sudden changes in weather can occur, especially during nighttime flights. Investigative reports revealed that factors including limited visibility and adverse environmental conditions played critical roles in the accident. It prompted discussions around safety regulations, pilot training for adverse weather, and emergency protocols in the aviation industry in Hawaii. The incident ultimately contributed to a series of safety improvements across regional airlines, emphasizing the importance of understanding local weather patterns.

In the aftermath, Aloha Island Air, like many operators, faced scrutiny regarding its operational procedures and maintenance practices. The accident led to a broader examination of regional aviation operations in Hawaii, focusing on improving safety measures and training to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The victims' families were left with a lasting impact, as the community mourned the loss of so many lives in one tragic incident.