The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has released significant findings regarding the tragic crash of UPS Flight 2976 in Louisville. This incident, which occurred on November 4, led to the loss of three crew members and 11 people on the ground. The newly unveiled images show the separation of the left engine during takeoff.
NTSB Unveils Images of Engine Detachment in UPS Flight Crash
The report details that a critical mount connecting the left engine to the McDonnell Douglas MD-11F failed shortly after takeoff. Investigators noted that the engine broke free, igniting a fireball and creating a debris field spanning half a mile. This disaster occurred near a petroleum recycling facility and a UPS warehouse, resulting in extensive damage and visible smoke.
Investigation Findings
- The report identified fatigue cracks in the hardware securing the engine.
- Signs of over-stressing were evident in the structural fittings, known as lugs.
- All MD-11 and MD-11F aircraft were grounded for rigorous inspections by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
The MD-11, a 34-year-old aircraft, was already being phased out by UPS. The company operates 25 other MD-11s and has six additional planes in storage.
Crash Sequence and Eyewitness Accounts
The NTSB provided a detailed timeline of the crash, revealing that the plane did not climb higher than 30 feet after takeoff from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport. Eyewitnesses, including control tower personnel, reported that the takeoff speed was normal, but the aircraft began losing altitude immediately. It subsequently rolled to the left, leading to the tragic outcome.
Aircraft Maintenance and Historical Context
Prior to the accident, the MD-11 underwent six weeks of maintenance in San Antonio. Investigators are reviewing all service records to determine any contributing factors. NTSB officials compared this incident to the 1979 American Airlines Flight 191 disaster, where a similar separation of the engine led to a catastrophic crash.
Data Recovery and Further Investigation
The cockpit voice recorder captured over two hours of audio data. Additionally, the flight data recorder held 63 hours of information from various flights, including the final flight. Multiple experts in aviation and safety are involved in this ongoing investigation.
UPS has expressed its commitment to supporting the NTSB throughout the investigative process. Boeing, which merged with McDonnell Douglas, has also extended condolences to the victims’ families. A comprehensive final report from the NTSB is anticipated within 18 to 24 months.
