UPS Plane Engine Detaches During Takeoff in Kentucky, Causing Deadly Crash

UPS Plane Crash in Kentucky

• ✈️ The left engine of a UPS jet detached from the wing during takeoff in Louisville, Kentucky.
• 💥 The MD-11 aircraft then crashed and exploded at the end of the runway, creating a deadly ball of flames.
• 🚒 The burning plane careened through industrial buildings outside the airport, leaving a path of destruction a half-mile long.

Investigation and Black Box

• 🔍 The NTSB has recovered the cockpit black box, which suffered some heat damage but is built to withstand such events.
• 📊 Once the recording is analyzed in their DC lab, it will provide a better understanding of the events before and during the flight.
• 🗺️ Investigators are still determining the exact location of all airplane parts within the extensive debris field.

Flight Details and Casualties

• ⛽ The MD-11 was headed for Honolulu and was carrying approximately 38,000 gallons of fuel due to the long trip.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 There were 3 crew members onboard, and at least 12 people lost their lives, including a child.
• 🚨 Aviation experts suggest that alarms were likely sounding on board, indicating fire, and the crew may not have had time to declare an emergency.

UPS Hub and Airport Operations

• 🏢 Louisville is home to UPS's global air hub, a 5 million square foot sorting facility located between two main airport runways.
• ✈️ Flights have resumed according to the airport's website, but there is a major backlog from delayed flights.