UFO sighted in Maui, Hawaii in 1956

Summary

In January 1956, a woman in Lahinia, Maui, reported a unidentified flying object that appeared as an orange flame the size of a quarter. The witness, a 56-year-old retiree, observed the phenomenon for 25 minutes. The object moved quickly, paused, and finally disappeared into the distance. Although no photos were taken, her testimony was detailed and consistent. The official report suggested it could be aircraft lights, explaining that atmospheric and optical effects might have altered her perception of size and color. This was not her first UFO experience, as she had reported several since 1952.

The classified military report concluded the object "could be an aircraft," but could not be confirmed with certainty. The witness described a muffled roar and unusual movement, raising doubts about whether it was a conventional phenomenon. Despite no flight records being found in the area, it was considered that some local aircraft, including jets or helicopters, might have been involved. The official analysis noted that conventional explanations could not be ruled out, but the unusual nature of the testimony could not be ignored.