Copter makes hard landing near Kunia

The Federal Aviation Administration is investigating a helicopter’s hard landing in West Oahu.

The FAA says a pilot in a Mauna Loa Helicopters Robinson R-22 was practicing autorotations near Kunia Wednesday when the chopper made a hard landing. Autorotations are maneuvers when a pilot lands with simulated power loss. An FAA spokesman said Friday there was substantial damage to the helicopter but no reported injuries.

HawaiiNewsNow Video: Gov picks new communications manager

Gov. Neil Abercrombie has named Keith DeMello, a public relations executive, as communications manager.

DeMello worked as vice president of public affairs at McNeil Wilson Communications. Donalyn Dela Cruz, the governor’s spokeswoman, was promoted to deputy director of communications but will still serve as the governor’s primary voice.

The governor’s communications director is Jim Boersema, who was hired in October after former communications director Josh Levinson and deputy director Laurie Au resigned in a staff shake-up.

Water panel searches for new members

The state Water Commission is looking for people to serve on the body that oversees implementation and administration of the state’s water code.

The commission said Tuesday it has two positions to fill. One position is vacant now, and the other will open in July.

A nominating committee will screen applicants and send the names of at least three people for each open position to Gov. Neil Abercrombie. Nominees should have experience with Hawaiian water rights. Members serve without pay but are reimbursed for expenses.

NEIGHBOR ISLANDS

Lava takes rest from its walk toward the sea

The lava flow from the latest eruption of Puu Oo crater has stalled, for now, on its way to the ocean and bypassed the home of Jack Thompson, the only remaining resident in the Royal Gardens subdivision.

Since reaching the coastal plain about a mile and a half from the ocean on Tuesday, lava has been inching forward down the northern flank of Puu Oo crater, said Janet Babb, Hawaiian Volcano Observatory spokeswoman.

She said it is hard to predict when the flow will reach the ocean.

A pilot told scientists at the observatory that the lava hasn’t advanced much since Thursday.

The lava is not a threat to any structures, officials said.