Louisville Mayor’s Fuel Miscalculation Sparks Confusion After UPS Jet Crash

A UPS cargo jet crashed shortly after takeoff from Louisville International Airport. The incident occurred around 5:15 p.m. local time, triggering a massive fire. Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg confirmed multiple injuries and an ongoing emergency response.

The mayor’s subsequent social media post ignited a separate controversy. He stated the aircraft was carrying 280,000 gallons of fuel. This figure was immediately questioned by aviation experts familiar with the aircraft type.

Aviation Experts Correct the Record on MD-11 Fuel Capacity

The aircraft involved was a McDonnell Douglas MD-11 cargo jet. According to industry specifications reported by sources like Reuters, the MD-11’s fuel capacity is approximately 36,000 gallons. This is a fraction of the mayor’s initial claim.

The governor’s mention of 280,000 gallons appears to be a unit error. The correct figure is likely closer to 280,000 pounds of fuel, which converts to about 36,000 gallons. This clarification significantly alters the scale of the fuel-related fire hazard described at the scene.

Investigation Underway as Airline Confirms Crew Details

United Parcel Service confirmed the aircraft was operating its flight. The plane was bound for Honolulu from its primary Worldport hub in Louisville. The company stated three crew members were on board during the accident.

The Federal Aviation Administration and air traffic control authorities have launched an investigation. Flight radar data indicated the plane’s last transmitted speed was 184 knots. The focus is now on determining the cause of the crash shortly after departure.

The correction of the fuel quantity highlights the critical need for accurate information during emergency responses. The UPS plane crash investigation continues as officials work to determine the exact sequence of events.

Info at your fingertips

What type of plane was involved in the Louisville crash?

The aircraft was a McDonnell Douglas MD-11. This is a wide-body trijet cargo aircraft operated by UPS for long-haul routes.

How much fuel can an MD-11 actually carry?

An MD-11 cargo jet can carry approximately 36,000 gallons of fuel. This is a standard capacity for this specific aircraft model used in freight operations.

Were there any fatalities in the crash?

UPS confirmed three crew members were on board. Mayor Greenberg’s initial statements reported multiple injuries but did not confirm fatalities as emergency crews responded.

Where was the UPS flight headed?

The flight was en route to Honolulu, Hawaii. It departed from Louisville, which is the location of UPS’s primary global air hub known as Worldport.

What caused the plane to crash?

The cause is currently under investigation by the FAA. Officials have not released any preliminary findings about what led to the accident shortly after takeoff.

Trusted Sources

Associated Press, Reuters, Flight Radar.