On 28 May 2008, "Kitty Hawk" departed Japan for the last time, to be replaced in Japan by "George Washington". However, during "George Washington"s transit of the Pacific Coast of South America en route to the planned turnover with "Kitty Hawk" in Hawaii, a major fire broke out that led to "Washington" diverting to San Diego for repairs. This led to the US Navy retaining "Kitty Hawk" in Hawaii to take part in the RIMPAC 2008 exercises in June and July. On 7 August 2008, "Kitty Hawk" arrived at NAS North Island.