The number of fatalities due to the transport jet which burst into flames and crashed has reached 13, as confirmed by recent reports.
Mayor's Statement
“On my way to the Teamsters’ vigil, I was informed of a additional fatality that lost their life as a result of the UPS flight 2976 accident,” expressed the local official in a public communication. “My thoughts are with the relatives, companions and co-workers of all who were lost in this recently occurred tragedy. We will overcome this as one.”
Casualties Named
A release from the carrier listed the officers on board the McDonnell Douglas MD-11 as Captain Richard Wartenberg, Co-pilot Lee Truitt, and International Relief Officer Dana Diamond.
“Our thoughts are extended to each employee who has been affected and all in our Louisville region – assisting you and making sure you receive the attention and aid you need is our priority,” the organization’s communication read.
Investigation Updates
Government investigators announced that the UPS cargo plane’s left wing ignited and an engine detached just after liftoff from the airfield, leading to the aircraft to fall and erupt into a inferno.
The National Transportation Safety Board announced it is investigating the plane’s service record, that was in Texas for repairs weeks ahead of the incident.
Aviation data indicated the jet was on the tarmac in the Texas city from 3 September to mid-October.
“We are knowledgeable that this jet was there in that city,” said an investigator on Thursday, not giving a precise date range. “We will review all elements of service that was performed, even the repair visit, right up to the time of the trip.”
Recovery of Critical Components
The audio device and data recorder were recovered, and the power plant was discovered on the airfield.
The units – referred to as data containers – were designed to survive collision damage and intense fire from fires, and they appeared to be intact when found among the wreckage. Investigators plan on examining recordings from the recorders.
The plane’s final recorded information showed an altitude of that level and a speed of that speed ahead of the impact.
Service History
Based on Federal Aviation Administration files dated 18 September, a crack on a structural piece within the center wing fuel tank needed fixes.
The company ST Engineering, which stated it supplies aircraft servicing for the company’s jet and runs a service location in San Antonio, refused to comment, but stated it would work closely when investigators reached out it.
Operations Restart
Meanwhile, the facility operations resumed that evening with its express or night sort operation, spokesperson the company official confirmed. All three tarmacs at the aviation hub were also open again.
The distribution hub in the city is the organization’s biggest. The center employs over 20,000 individuals in the area, manages numerous aircraft per day and organizes over 400,000 items an hour.
Local Reaction
A gathering was held on the late afternoon of that date by the local worker’s group, which acts for employees at the aviation hub, the firm’s biggest air cargo hub.
The union chapter, which supports staff, began the gathering with a period of reflection at the evening hour, the approximate time of the incident two days earlier.
“This event was so abrupt, so unexpected,” the mayor told the group of attendees. “No one had a moment to part to any one of those who we have lost.”
