Post by : Rameen Ariff

Investigators have located the flight recorders from a UPS cargo aircraft that erupted in flames during takeoff at Louisville International Airport on Tuesday, an accident that left at least 12 people dead, including members of the flight crew.

The 34-year-old MD-11 freighter, destined for Honolulu with three crew members aboard, burst into a large fireball shortly after lifting off and struck structures in an industrial area, including a petroleum recycling facility that ignited and exploded. Todd Inman of the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) said one of the jet’s three engines separated from the left wing during the takeoff roll.

Investigators reported both the flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder were found intact on Wednesday; these devices are built to survive extreme impact and heat. The NTSB plans to transfer them to its laboratory in Washington, D.C., for detailed analysis. Officials say an initial report could appear within about 30 days, while a complete investigation may take 12 to 24 months.

State of Emergency Declared

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear declared a state of emergency to speed up response and recovery efforts. Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg confirmed via social media that 12 people have died and that several others remain unaccounted for. At least 11 people on the ground suffered injuries, some serious, in the crash and ensuing fires.

Roughly 200 firefighters and emergency personnel, supported by about 50 trucks, worked to bring the blaze under control after it produced thick black smoke visible across the city. Nearby facilities including a convention centre, a restaurant and a Ford Motor Co. plant reported little to no damage.

Impact on UPS Operations

The accident prompted a temporary closure of Louisville International Airport and disrupted operations at UPS Worldport, the company’s global cargo hub. While portions of the airport have reopened, the runway involved may remain closed for up to 10 days. UPS resumed hub activity Wednesday evening and aimed to restore flight schedules by Thursday morning.

This is UPS’s first cargo-plane crash since August 2013. The MD-11, originally manufactured by McDonnell Douglas (now part of Boeing), remains in use with some cargo carriers. Aviation specialists are focused on the engine separation during takeoff, even as the type is capable of flying with one engine inoperative.

Ongoing Investigation

The NTSB will lead the investigation with support from Boeing and GE Aerospace. Safety expert Anthony Brickhouse said the engine fire and separation will be central to the inquiry, along with the implications of losing an engine that was carrying fuel for an 8½-hour flight.

Authorities emphasised there is currently no indication the crash is linked to the recent U.S. government shutdown that affected some air traffic services. Investigators will examine all technical, mechanical and operational factors before making any safety recommendations.

As recovery work continues, Louisville officials are prioritising public safety and the removal of debris. The city and UPS employees are coping with the loss, while regulators prepare an in-depth review that could inform future cargo-flight safety measures.

#Global News