In brief
On Tuesday evening, a UPS cargo plane crashed during takeoff from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport, tragically claiming the lives of at least 11 individuals. The crash, which occurred around 5:15 PM local time, was due to the left engine catching fire and falling off, resulting in a severe explosion. More than a dozen people sustained injuries from burns and shrapnel. The investigation is ongoing, and recovery efforts are complicated by the extent of the fire and debris.
At least 11 people were killed after a UPS cargo plane crashed during take off from an airport in Louisville, Kentucky on Tuesday evening, the state's governor said.
Andy Beshear stated that the death toll is anticipated to rise, with potentially one child among the victims after the freight plane exploded as it departed Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport at around 5:15 PM local time (22:15 GMT).
The left engine caught fire and fell from the wing during takeoff, prompting a massive fire that released thick clouds of smoke into the air, explained the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
More than a dozen others were injured in the incident, suffering various injuries including burns, shrapnel wounds, and smoke inhalation.
Officials confirmed that those who survived experienced very significant injuries, and search operations were ongoing for unaccounted individuals.
According to Governor Beshear, the plane's three-member crew is believed to be among the fatalities.
A preliminary investigation is underway but officials have indicated that it is too soon to determine the exact cause of the crash. Surveillance footage has revealed that the left engine detached from the aircraft during the takeoff roll.
Emergency services rushed to the scene as the plane lifted off the ground and cleared a fence before colliding with several local businesses. In response to the tragedy, Beshear declared a state of emergency to expedite the distribution of resources for recovery.
As of Wednesday, Louisville's airport had reopened its runway for flights.
Concerns remain as families report missing loved ones, and at least 16 families are still searching for information regarding those unaccounted for.
This incident has prompted safety concerns regarding the MD-11F aircraft model, prompting UPS to halt all package sorting operations at their Worldport hub following the crash.
The tragedy occurred as the aircraft was set to fly a lengthy journey to Hawaii, carrying 38,000 gallons of fuel which contributed to the severity of the resulting blaze.
Boeing has expressed its readiness to assist with the investigation and has prioritized the safety of all impacted.
