A UPS cargo plane tragically crashed shortly after takeoff from Louisville International Airport in Kentucky, resulting in the loss of at least 12 lives. According to Todd Inman from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), the plane’s left wing caught fire, and one of its engines detached as it ascended. This led to a debris field stretching half a mile.
The incident occurred around 5:15 p.m. ET, just after the flight took off for Honolulu. Eyewitnesses reported seeing flames and smoke. Inman detailed that the aircraft managed to clear a fence at the end of the runway but soon crashed into nearby structures.
NTSB investigators have recovered both black boxes from the wreckage. Though they showed signs of heat, Inman assured that they are built to withstand such conditions. He expressed confidence that analyzing the data would provide crucial insights into the crash.
The aircraft, a modified 1991 McDonnell Douglas MD-11 Freighter, was undergoing maintenance recently, adding complexity to the investigation. Former federal crash investigator Jeff Guzzetti emphasized the need to review maintenance records thoroughly.
The crash had a significant impact, causing explosions at nearby sites, such as a petroleum recycling facility, but local officials noted that the aircraft narrowly missed hitting more populated areas, including a major Ford factory.
Aviation attorney Pablo Rojas pointed out that the aircraft appeared to struggle for altitude amidst the fire, likening the situation to a bomb due to the fuel onboard. This reflects concerns associated with similar engine types. For instance, General Electric CF6 engines have been involved in previous accidents, prompting safety inspections in the past.
Recent statistics show that cargo plane crashes, while rare, can lead to devastating consequences. According to the National Transportation Safety Board, cargo planes are involved in about 3% of all aviation accidents, yet they account for nearly 10% of aviation casualties. This underscores the importance of rigorous maintenance and safety protocols in the aviation industry.
As the investigation unfolds, experts will continue to analyze the black boxes and maintenance records. These findings will be crucial in understanding the chain of events that led to this tragic crash.
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Plane Crash, Louisville, Kentucky, UPS
