A large fire was started when a UPS cargo aircraft crashed while taking off from Louisville, Kentucky, striking multiple ground properties, including a petroleum recycling company.
A McDonnel Douglas MD11 was flying UPS flight 2976, which was headed for Honolulu, Hawaii.
“We are terribly saddened by the accident tonight in Louisville. Our heartfelt thoughts are with everyone involved. UPS is committed to the safety of our employees, our customers and the communities we serve. This is particularly true in Louisville, home to our airline and thousands of UPSers. We are engaged with the National Transportation Safety Board’s investigation of the accident and are staying in close contact with the Federal Aviation Administration. We will work tirelessly with state and local authorities on response efforts.“
UPS Statement
Officials have verified that the crash claimed the lives of at least twelve persons, including the three crew members.
Shortly after takeoff, dashcam footage shows the plane crashing and hitting structures well outside the airport’s boundary.
