Cargo plane crash kills seven in Kentucky
Table of Contents
- LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY —
- Key facts
- Response and investigation
- Human impact
- How many people were killed in the crash?
- What type of aircraft was involved?
- Where did the plane crash?
- Were there people on the ground affected?
- What are investigators doing now?
LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY —
Cargo plane crash footage shows a fully fuelled MD-11 jet erupting into flames just metres after takeoff from Louisville, Kentucky. At least seven people have died and authorities warn the death toll may rise as emergency crews search the scene.
Witness video captured fire pouring from the left wing as the aircraft struggled to climb. Within seconds the jet exploded in a huge fireball and thick black smoke that could be seen for kilometres.
The MD-11 three‑engine cargo jet was bound for Honolulu and had three crew on board. The aircraft came down just after 5pm local time while still fully fuelled for the roughly eight‑hour flight.
Authorities say the plane struck two businesses near the end of the runway: a petroleum recycling facility and an auto parts store. Officials are concerned employees and potential customers may be missing, and the presence of petroleum products complicates rescue and recovery operations.
Fire crews fought to contain intense flames that spread across the business properties. Aerial images released by responders show the path the aircraft carved during the crash landing and the extent of the blaze.
Anybody who has seen the images in the video know how violent this crash is.
Police have begun door‑to‑door checks of nearby properties to make sure no one else was injured or missing. Investigators are on site collecting debris and evidence as they work to determine what went wrong.
Because the crash involved a petroleum recycling site, authorities say it may be some time before they can fully account for everyone or confirm there are no further casualties.
Key facts
- Location: Louisville, Kentucky, near the airport runway.
- Aircraft: MD‑11 three‑engine cargo jet.
- Destination: Honolulu, Hawaii.
- On board: Three crew members (cargo aircraft crew).
- Time: Just after 5pm local time upon takeoff.
- Impact: Struck a petroleum recycling facility and an auto parts store; fire followed.
Response and investigation
Emergency services responded immediately, deploying firefighters, police and investigators. Crews concentrated on containing the blaze and ensuring nearby businesses and residences were evacuated.
Investigators are meticulously collecting debris and other evidence at the scene. Officials have not confirmed the cause of the fire that erupted from the wing, and they have warned families there may be a delay in finalising casualty numbers given the hazardous site conditions.
Human impact
Local authorities and airline representatives are working to notify families. Officials acknowledged many relatives will be left waiting for information and promised to provide updates as investigations progress.
Police said they are conducting door‑to‑door checks in surrounding areas to locate anyone who may have been affected and to confirm there are no additional casualties.
How many people were killed in the crash?
At least seven people have been reported dead. Authorities have said the death toll is expected to rise as crews continue searches and account for people at the affected businesses.
What type of aircraft was involved?
The aircraft was an MD‑11 three‑engine cargo jet that had just taken off from Louisville and was bound for Honolulu.
Where did the plane crash?
The plane crashed near the back of the runway at Louisville, striking a petroleum recycling facility and an auto parts store close to the airport.
Were there people on the ground affected?
Yes. Officials are concerned employees and customers at the two businesses may be missing and are conducting door‑to‑door checks of nearby properties to locate anyone who might have been impacted.
What are investigators doing now?
Investigators are on scene collecting debris and evidence, working to determine the cause of the fire and the crash. The presence of hazardous materials at one of the struck facilities may slow recovery and accounting efforts.
The information in this article has been adapted from mainstream news sources and video reports published on official channels. Watch the full video here Cargo plane crash kills seven in Kentucky | 7NEWS
