LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Recovery teams are in their third day of searching for victims from the catastrophic crash of a UPS cargo plane near Louisville, Kentucky. Following the plane’s fiery descent shortly after takeoff, investigators are striving to uncover how the aircraft lost an engine and ignited into flames.
The inferno, which engulfed the aircraft and spread to surrounding businesses, tragically claimed the lives of at least 12 individuals, including a child. As per Governor Andy Beshear's statements, the odds of finding additional survivors in the wreckage at UPS Worldport, the company’s central aviation hub, appear grim.
The plane, with three individuals on board, was in flight shortly after being cleared for takeoff when the left wing ignited. As reported by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), the investigation into the cause of the fire and subsequent engine failure may extend beyond a year.
Witnesses recounted the horrific moment, describing hearing a loud boom and watching as flames engulfed the aircraft in a panic. Local establishments like Stooges Bar and Grill noted disturbances like flickering lights as the tragedy unfolded.
Investigators have since recovered critical evidence, including the cockpit voice recorder, but the full details surrounding the engine's malfunction remain under scrutiny. Experts suggest that the crash may echo a similar incident from 1979 involving engine failure, indicating possible systemic issues.
In light of the ongoing shock in the Louisville community, UPS has expressed profound sorrow over the incident. However, operations have resumed at the nearby airport, with minor flight disruptions continuing amidst the aftermath of this tragic event.
