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Engine Failure Sparks Tragedy at Kentucky Airport
Clear Facts
- The left engine of a UPS cargo plane detached during takeoff at Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport, leading to a fiery crash.
- The crash killed at least 12 people, including all three crew members and a young child, and injured 11 others on the ground.
- The FBI is assisting the NTSB in the investigation, with no official cause released yet.
The National Transportation Safety Board confirmed Wednesday that the left engine of UPS Flight 2976 fell off as the plane attempted takeoff.
Governor Andy Beshear reported that the plane crashed into the Kentucky Petroleum Recycling building with more than 200,000 pounds of fuel.
At least 12 people lost their lives, including all crew members and a child, with 11 others injured on the ground.
“I’m deeply saddened to share that the death toll has risen to 12, with several individuals still unaccounted for,” Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg posted Wednesday night.
Officials say the NTSB found the detached engine on the airfield, but the cause of the crash remains under investigation.
Data shows there were no flight delays or immediate maintenance issues before departure, and the aircraft had no active airworthiness directives.
The FBI is working with the NTSB under a longstanding agreement, but officials have not indicated any suspected criminal intent.
Shipments through the Louisville hub often include critical supplies like life-saving drugs, food, and mail.
Investigators recovered the plane’s cockpit voice recorder and flight data recorder, which were exposed to heat but appear intact.
Specialized NTSB groups are reviewing the flight’s operational history, aircraft structure, engines, systems, and maintenance.
The Federal Aviation Administration noted the aircraft served for nearly 35 years.
UPS Worldport, based at the Louisville airport, is the hub for the company’s air cargo and the city’s largest private employer, providing 26,000 jobs.
Governor Beshear declared a state of emergency to aid recovery efforts.
The NTSB will coordinate investigation roles with the plane’s manufacturer, operator, crew unions, and agencies; all participants are barred from public comment without NTSB approval.
Federal officials confirm the investigation will continue regardless of the ongoing government shutdown.
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