Seven people were killed when a UPS cargo plane crashed while taking off from an airport in Louisville, Kentucky on Tuesday evening, the state's governor reported.
At least 11 others sustained injuries when the cargo plane exploded as it departed Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport at around 17:15 local time, sending thick black smoke into the sky.
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear noted that the plane's three crew members were likely among the deceased, remarking on the violent nature of the crash.
Officials issued a warning regarding the possibility of further fatalities, as the injuries suffered by many were described as 'very significant.'
The flight, UPS 2976, was headed to Honolulu, Hawaii, and was carrying 38,000 gallons of fuel when it skidded off the runway, impacting nearby structures.
The explosion engulfed two businesses, leading to an initial shelter-in-place order within a five-mile radius of the airport, subsequently restricted to one mile.
In response, all departing flights for the evening were cancelled. Fire Chief Brian O'Neill stated that fire crews had nearly contained the massive blaze, which necessitated the deployment of hundreds of firefighters from various regions.
Beshear urged the public to avoid the crash site due to the risk of flammable and potentially explosive materials still present, while the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has begun its investigation.
The aircraft involved, an MD-11F model, was previously a passenger jet before its use for UPS, and both UPS and FedEx plan to phase out their fleets of MD-11s over the coming years.
In a statement, UPS expressed deep sorrow over the incident and committed to the safety of its employees and community.
This tragic event struck at the heart of Louisville, known as 'UPS town,' leaving residents anxious for news about their loved ones working at the company's local hub.
