A UPS MD11 cargo plane crashed shortly after takeoff near Louisville Airport in Kentucky. Preliminary reports confirm that UPS Flight 2976 went down around 5 p.m. local time. The flight was en route to Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu.
Investigation Underway
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are investigating the incident. The NTSB will lead the investigation, as announced by the FAA.
Emergency Response
Local authorities, including the Louisville Metro Police Department, are responding to the crash. Reports indicate that injuries have been sustained, and a shelterinplace order has been issued for areas within a fivemile radius of the airport.
Crash Location Details
- The crash occurred near Fern Valley and Grade Lane, close to Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport.
- Grade Lane is closed indefinitely between Stooges and Crittenden.
Environmental Impact
Witnesses have reported seeing a large plume of black smoke rising near the crash site. Videos show the significant aftermath of the incident, as emergency services respond.
Aircraft Specifications
The McDonnell Douglas MD11F, the type of aircraft involved, is primarily utilized for cargo by companies like UPS, FedEx Express, and Lufthansa Cargo. This model can take off with a maximum weight of 633,000 pounds and carry over 38,000 gallons of fuel.
Originally introduced in 1990, the MD11 was also adapted for passenger service before many were converted to freighters due to rising fuel costs.
This situation is ongoing, and further updates will be provided as information becomes available.