At least 13 people are now confirmed dead after the crash of UPS Airlines Flight 2976, a McDonnell Douglas MD-11F freighter which suffered a catastrophic failure shortly after take-off from Louisville.
Three crew members on board were among the fatalities, and several people on the ground at nearby businesses remain missing.
National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigators say the aircraft’s left engine detached during take-off, after signs of a fire plume from the wing. The crash site lies just beyond the end of the runway at the airport in an industrial zone, complicating recovery efforts.
The cargo hub where UPS operates - a major node for its global network -has been impacted. Although operations have resumed in part, the crash triggered immediate suspensions and deliveries are expected to face delays while logistics are adjusted.
Officials emphasise that the death toll may increase, as nine individuals remain unaccounted for according to the latest updates. Families of missing persons have been urged to contact authorities and avoid going directly to hospitals, as a unified search/reunification centre has been established.
In terms of the investigation: the NTSB has recovered the flight data and cockpit voice recorders (black boxes) and are now poring over maintenance logs and structural history of the aircraft, including its recent month-long stay in San Antonio for repairs. A preliminary report is expected within 30 days, but final conclusions could take much longer.
Local authorities continue to maintain a restricted zone around the crash site while search and recovery efforts press ahead. Community vigils have been held in memory of the victims, and the broader Louisville region is in mourning.
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