Cargo plane crash. Photo: X Death toll rises to nine. The number of victims from the UPS cargo plane that crashed soon after takeoff from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport en route to Honolulu on Tuesday has reached nine, according to the latest updates.
On Wednesday afternoon (GMT+2 time), it was reported that the airport was partially reopened.
"The news out of Louisville is tough tonight as the death toll has now reached at least 7, with that number expected to rise. First responders are onsite and working hard to extinguish the fire and continue the investigation."
The Governor added that they deployed air monitoring assets and that they were "working to keep the public informed and keep folks in the area safe." "We will share more information as it’s available.", the official added, asking the public to "pray for the families affected, Louisville and all of Kentucky."
"We are hurting right now after a heartbreaking day.", he added on X.
Meanwhile, UPS announced that it is fully cooperating with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and will suspend package sorting operations at the Worldport Center in Louisville tonight.
"We are deeply saddened by the accident that occurred tonight in Louisville. Our hearts go out to all involved. At UPS, we are committed to the safety of our employees, our customers and the communities we serve. This is especially true in Louisville, home to our airline and the workplace of thousands of UPS employees."
Boeing also issued a special statement following the disaster:
"We are monitoring the news from Louisville regarding UPS Flight 2976. Our concern is for the safety and well-being of all involved. We stand ready to support our customer and have offered technical assistance to the NTSB.
Original story: Flight 2976 operated by UPS crashed around 5:15 PM on November 4 after departing from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport in Kentucky, U.S. The condition of the three crew members who were on the plane remains unknown, said UPS. Local police report several injuries on the ground, possibly in the building where the plane crashed.
The McDonnell Douglas MD-11 was en route to Honolulu International Airport. The FAA and NTSB have announced an investigation into the incident. The NTSB will lead the investigation and provide updates.
Local police and security officials reported the crash occurred near Fern Valley and Grade Lane. The area has been closed off, and injuries have been reported.
Louisville Mayor, Craig Greenberg, on X: "Rachel, my wife, and I are praying for the victims of the UPS plane crash that occurred during takeoff at 5:15 PM. All emergency services are on-site. Many injuries have been reported, and the fire is still burning. There are many road closures in the area, please avoid this location. The plane was carrying 280,000 gallons of fuel".
UPS MD-11 airplane (Photo: SHUTTERSTOCK - Austin Deppe)