UPDATE: A UPS cargo jet tragically crashed during takeoff from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport on Tuesday, with dramatic video footage revealing shocking details about the incident. The crash occurred at approximately 5:15 PM local time, shortly after the McDonnell Douglas MD-11 departed for Honolulu.
Eyewitness videos circulating online show the aircraft seemingly engulfed in flames even before it left the ground. One clip, reportedly filmed by airport employees, captures the moment the cargo plane rolled down the runway, already ablaze. Moments later, a massive fireball erupts, followed by thick black smoke, indicating a potential explosion near or shortly after liftoff.
Further footage from bystanders appears to document the horrifying scene as the jet crashed into nearby buildings, highlighting the destructive force of the incident. Authorities have urged the public to stay clear of the crash site, which remains an “active scene with fire and debris.”
Currently, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are investigating the cause of the crash, but no official details have been confirmed. The NTSB has not yet verified the footage circulating online, emphasizing that the information surrounding the crash remains preliminary.
As the investigation unfolds, questions arise about whether the aircraft was already experiencing a fire or another emergency before attempting takeoff. The FAA has confirmed that the flight was Flight 2976, en route to Honolulu, and is working closely with the NTSB to determine the exact circumstances leading to this tragic event.
This incident marks a significant moment for aviation safety, as officials continue to analyze the alarming footage and assess the impact on the community. The urgency of the situation is palpable, with many expressing shock and concern over the crash’s aftermath.
Stay tuned for updates as authorities work to uncover the truth behind this devastating incident.
