LOUISVILLE, Ky. — At least three people were killed and 11 others injured after a UPS freight transport aircraft crashed near Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport early Tuesday morning, according to Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear.
Authorities said the MD-11 cargo plane, which was 34 years old, went down shortly after takeoff while en route to Honolulu, Hawaii. The aircraft was carrying three crew members, and officials have not yet confirmed whether the fatalities include any of them.
According to CNN, the flight was loaded with approximately 38,000 gallons of fuel, which contributed to a massive fire following the impact. Emergency responders quickly arrived on scene, where firefighters are currently searching building to building in the nearby residential area for possible trapped victims.
Thick smoke and flames were visible for miles, and multiple nearby structures sustained heavy damage. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched a joint investigation into the cause of the crash.
Governor Beshear said state and local agencies are coordinating with federal authorities to provide assistance and ensure the safety of residents near the crash site.
“This is a tragic morning for Kentucky,” Beshear said in a statement. “We are doing everything we can to support first responders and affected families.”
Further details, including the identities of the victims and the cause of the crash, remain under investigation.
