A plane’s left wing caught fire and lost its engine just before crashing and exploding into flames on Tuesday, recent reports reveal.
The initial findings on the incident emerged today as the US grieves for the victims, which include a child. Authorities in Louisville, Kentucky, have received reports from at least 16 families about missing loved ones.
Following clearance for takeoff, a significant fire erupted in the left wing, according to Todd Inman, a member of the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) overseeing the investigation. The NTSB will investigate the cause of the fire and the engine detachment, a process expected to take over a year.
Preliminary investigations suggest the aircraft managed to clear the runway’s end before crashing near Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport. The airport, a major hub handling millions of passengers and tons of cargo annually, was the scene of the tragic event.
Analysis of airport security footage revealed the left engine separating from the wing during takeoff. The cockpit voice recorder, data recorder, and the detached engine were located on the airfield.
Debris from the plane scattered over a half-mile area, making the search for survivors challenging. Despite ongoing efforts, finding survivors appears unlikely given the extensive wreckage.
An aviation attorney noted that video footage indicated the plane struggled to gain altitude while a fire raged on its left side near one of the engines.
The aircraft, over three decades old, was carrying 38,000 gallons of fuel when it crashed, acting as a fuel-laden hazard. The resulting blaze engulfed the plane and spread to nearby structures.
UPS Worldport, the company’s global aviation hub at Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport, faced temporary closure after the crash. The incident is expected to disrupt the supply chain, causing shipping delays, according to company statements.
While details about the cargo on the plane remain undisclosed, UPS is anticipated to face increased workload to overcome the closure’s impact. The company aims to clear any backlog before the upcoming Christmas season, a spokesperson mentioned.
Tom Goldsby, a supply chain management professor, emphasized the urgency to address the crisis promptly while ensuring thorough resolution procedures are followed.