A tragic incident unfolded during Aloha Airlines Flight 243’s journey from Hilo to Honolulu in Hawaii, resulting in the untimely death of a flight attendant and leaving passengers deeply shaken. The Boeing 737-297 aircraft encountered a catastrophic event mid-flight, causing severe damage and instilling lasting fear in those on board.
The distressing episode took place on April 28, 1988, when the flight experienced explosive decompression in the air due to a fuselage part failure attributed to suspected inadequate maintenance and metal fatigue. Despite successfully landing in Maui, the aircraft suffered substantial damage, and one life was tragically lost.
The harrowing moment of the aircraft’s roof blowing open led to the ejection of flight attendant Clarabelle Lansing, who had a remarkable 37-year career in the industry. Lansing, 58, was swept out of the plane while positioned near the fifth row of seats and her body was never recovered.
While eight individuals, including another crew member, sustained serious injuries, Lansing was the sole fatality. Additionally, 57 passengers endured injuries from the sudden decompression, even though they were secured with seat belts during the incident.
Following a routine takeoff and ascent, the aircraft reached its typical altitude of 24,000 feet when a section of the roof unexpectedly ruptured, causing panic among the crew. The subsequent investigation by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board revealed that the accident resulted from metal fatigue exacerbated by crevice corrosion.
At the time of the mishap, the 19-year-old aircraft had been exposed to corrosive coastal conditions, leading to irreparable damage. A passenger later confessed to noticing a crack in the fuselage before boarding but chose not to report it, contributing to the tragic outcome.
This catastrophic event left a lasting impact on aviation safety measures and regulations. The aircraft was deemed unsalvageable and was ultimately dismantled and written off. The day’s events have been immortalized in various films and TV productions, notably in the movie Miracle Landing.
In a poignant tribute, Honolulu International Airport honored the memory of the fallen flight attendant by establishing a tranquil garden in terminal one. This serene space offers a peaceful sanctuary for reflection amidst the airport’s other serene outdoor areas.