NTSB Update on Fiery UPS Plane Crash: Cockpit Voice Recorder Findings

Investigation Update and Condolences

• 😔 The NTSB extends sincere condolences to the families affected by the tragic crash.
• 🔍 The investigation is in the fact-gathering phase, with a focus on understanding what happened and why, to prevent future occurrences.
• ⚠️ Residents with any located debris or information are urged to contact witness@ntsb.gov.

Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) Findings

• 🎧 The CVR captured 2 hours and 4 minutes of good quality digital audio.
• ✅ Standard checklists and pre-flight briefings were completed by the crew.
• 🔔 Approximately 37 seconds after takeoff thrust, a repeating bell was heard for 25 seconds until the end of the recording.
• ✈️ During this period, the crew made efforts to control the aircraft.
• 📄 A CVR transcript will be made public once a majority of other factual reports are available in the NTSB public docket.

Aircraft and Debris Field

• ⚙️ The bulk of the left engine pylon remained attached to the left engine when it separated from the wing; both are undergoing examination.
• 🗺️ Additional searches are being conducted for engine attachment pieces, and a LAR scan has been completed.
• ⚡ The debris field remains active with spot fires from compressed paper products, requiring careful management to avoid disturbing the scene.
• 🤝 Over 100 first responders and over 500 individuals are involved in securing and investigating the scene.
• ⚠️ The FBI is assisting in making potential hazards like compressed bottles and fire suppression materials safe for investigation.

Flight Data and Environmental Concerns

• 📊 Preliminary FAA ADSB data indicated a GPS altitude of 475 ft (approx. 100 ft above ground level), which is being collaborated with Flight Data Recorder (FDR) data.
• 💧 The NTSB is not investigating environmental concerns like oil and sludge in waterways; these are being handled by the Kentucky Division of Water and the EPA.

Investigation Process and Future Steps

• 🛠️ The NTSB is forming a CVR group to review the recording and produce a transcript.
• ✈️ Specialized aviation salvers are being brought in to assist with lifting and moving debris, which will help free up the investigation area.
• 🧐 A complicating factor is distinguishing between aircraft parts and other metals/alloys on the ground.
• 🔬 The investigation will focus on the left engine pylon area due to video evidence, with metallurgical analysis planned.
• 🛩️ The NTSB has requested an exemplary aircraft from UPS for inspectors to examine similar configurations, and operations teams will use simulators.
• ⏳ The NTSB will remain on-site as long as necessary to secure perishable evidence and gather information for a comprehensive report, balancing speed with thoroughness and respect for victims.
• ⚠️ The NTSB's role is to collect perishable evidence, determine cause, and prevent future accidents; victim recovery is handled by local authorities.