7 dead after cargo plane crashes at Kentucky airport
What's the story
A United Parcel Service (UPS) cargo plane crashed during takeoff at the Louisville International Airport in Kentucky on Tuesday evening. The crash, which took place around 5:15pm local time, has left at least seven people dead and several others injured, the BBC said, quoting a public information officer at the airport. The aircraft was headed to Honolulu and had three crew members on board, all of whom are still unaccounted for.
Ongoing probe
Crash led to huge explosion and fire
The aircraft was carrying 38,000 gallons of fuel at the time of the crash. This led to a huge explosion and fire, which has now spread to nearby businesses. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has been dispatched to investigate the incident. A "go-team" from NTSB will reach Kentucky on Wednesday for further investigation, and a media briefing is expected soon after their arrival.
Community impact
Flights canceled as fire crews continue to battle flames
Louisville Metro Emergency Services has reduced the shelter-in-place order to a one-mile radius of the airport. One runway has reopened, but departing flights are canceled as fire crews continue to battle the flames. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear called it a "catastrophic crash" and said it's an "all-hands-on-deck response." He also confirmed at least three fatalities and 11 injuries from the incident.
Airport status
Boeing offers technical assistance to NTSB
Boeing has offered technical assistance to the NTSB and said they are "following the news out of Louisville." The crash site includes a petroleum recycling business and an auto-parts business, raising concerns about potential environmental issues. One runway at Louisville International Airport has reopened, but departing flights are canceled as investigations continue. The full extent of the damage and death toll is still being assessed by local officials.