Deadly UPS Cargo Plane Crash Rocks Louisville, Leaving Dozens Dead or Missing
A catastrophic cargo plane crash at Louisville International Airport has left the city reeling and raised urgent questions about the cause. Flames consumed the tarmac as the UPS MD-11 aircraft, fully fueled and bound for Honolulu,
caught fire during takeoff. The left engine detached in the blaze, and surrounding facilities were engulfed, leaving investigators racing to determine whether the tragedy was an accident or something more troubling.
Fatalities and Injuries
At least 12 people, including a child, have been confirmed dead, while dozens more are injured or missing. Authorities report that 15 individuals sustained injuries and 16 remain unaccounted for. Emergency responders are continuing search and rescue operations amid the destruction.
Sequence of Events
The crash occurred around 5:15 p.m. Tuesday as the plane began its departure roll at Louisville International Airport (SDF). The aircraft, built in the early 1990s, caught fire on the left wing. Officials say the fire quickly spread due to approximately 38,000 gallons of jet fuel on board, intensifying the blaze and engulfing nearby facilities, including a large recycling center.
Over 100 first responders worked for more than six hours to contain the flames, which are expected to smolder for a week or longer. Fortunately, no hazardous materials were reported on the aircraft, though nearby facilities housing chemicals are being secured as a precaution.
Emergency Measures and Impact
A state of emergency has been declared in the area. While air and water are generally safe, residents near the airport have been advised not to drink local water temporarily. The shelter-in-place zone has been limited to a quarter-mile radius around 7501 Grade Lane, near the city’s hazardous waste drop-off site.
LG&E de-energized power lines to a nearby station, affecting roughly 290 customers, while portions of the gas system were also isolated, impacting over 90 residents. Airport operations were temporarily halted, though partial reopening occurred Wednesday, with some taxiways still restricted. UPS Worldport canceled Next Day Air services Tuesday but resumed limited operations Wednesday evening.
Hospital Updates
University of Louisville Health hospitals report that 13 injured victims have been discharged, while two remain in critical condition. Among the fatalities are the three crew members aboard the aircraft.
Widespread Destruction
The crash left a scene of widespread devastation. Flames fueled by the plane’s jet fuel consumed structures and debris on the airport grounds, creating a dramatic and dangerous scene. While no individuals were reported trapped inside buildings, emergency crews continue to ensure that hotspots are fully extinguished and that surrounding areas are safe.
Investigation Underway
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has begun investigating the incident. Officials are working to determine the cause of the crash, with investigators reviewing flight data, maintenance records, and eyewitness accounts.
Conclusion
The Louisville UPS plane crash is a tragic event with far-reaching consequences, leaving families, the city, and the nation grappling with shock and grief. Confirmed fatalities, injuries, and missing individuals have strained local emergency resources, while the investigation aims to uncover what went wrong. This disaster serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks of air transport and the ongoing need for rigorous safety oversight. As rescue and recovery efforts continue, the community anxiously awaits answers and closure.