The recent crash of a UPS cargo plane in Louisville, Kentucky, saw the tragic loss of 14 lives on November 4. The incident unfolded just outside the Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport. Newly released images by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) highlight critical moments leading to the disaster.
UPS Cargo Plane Crash Details
- Date of Crash: November 4
- Location: Near Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport
- Casualties: 14 fatalities, including three crew members
The NTSB’s preliminary report indicates that the accident was preceded by the left engine detaching from the aircraft’s wing. Frame-by-frame images reveal the engine separating as the plane attempted to lift off. Following the detachment, a significant fire erupted.
Investigation Findings
Initial examinations of the aircraft’s hardware discovered fractures connecting the left engine to its wing. The NTSB reported that fatigue cracks and overstress failures were evident. Furthermore, the right engine remained attached during the incident.
The aircraft executed an initial climb but did not rise beyond 30 feet before crashing into structures below. The debris path extended over half a mile, impacting a storage yard and a petroleum recycling facility.
Impact on Aviation Safety
In response to the crash, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has grounded all McDonnell Douglas MD-11 aircrafts. This decision aims to ensure the safety of similar planes while investigations continue.
Fuel and Incident Aftermath
- Fuel Quantity: Approximately 38,000 gallons on board
- Previous UPS Crash: Last incident in 2013 near Birmingham, Alabama, resulting in two fatalities
Video footage shared on social media captured the aircraft engulfed in flames before the crash, creating a large fireball. The ongoing investigations will provide critical insights into this tragic event, highlighting the importance of aviation safety standards.
