The total count of fatalities resulting from the freight aircraft which ignited and plummeted has now risen to 13, according to latest statements.
City Leader's Announcement
“On my way to the Union’s candlelight gathering, I was informed of a thirteenth victim that died as a result of the UPS flight 2976 accident,” wrote the local official in a public communication. “My heart is with the loved ones, friends and peers of all who were taken in this recent tragedy. We will endure this together.”
Deceased Confirmed
A release from the carrier named the pilots 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 every staff member who has been affected and everyone in our community region – assisting you and making sure you obtain the care and aid you need is our priority,” the firm’s message stated.
Investigation Details
National authorities disclosed that the UPS cargo plane’s port side wing burst into flames and an power plant separated soon after takeoff from the Louisville Muhammad Ali international airport, resulting in the jet to fall and burst into a blaze.
The NTSB stated it is investigating the jet’s service record, which was in Texas for fixes a period prior to the incident.
Aviation information showed the plane was on the ground in the Texas city from the start of last month to mid-October.
“We are aware that this plane was present in San Antonio,” stated an official on later, without providing a specific time frame. “We will review each aspect of maintenance that was completed, even the repair time, straight to the day of the trip.”
Findings of Critical Evidence
The cockpit voice recorder and data recorder were recovered, and the engine was discovered on the airfield.
The units – known as black boxes – were built to endure crash impacts and severe heat from infernos, and they appeared to be in one piece when located among the wreckage. Investigators will examining data from the black boxes.
The plane’s concluding recorded information showed an altitude of 475 feet and a rate of 210 mph before the accident.
Maintenance History
Based on FAA documents dated 18 September, a crack on a part within the fuel container required fixes.
The company ST Engineering, which indicated it offers structural repairs for the carrier’s aircraft and runs a maintenance center in that city, refused to speak, but said it would work closely when officials reached out it.
Operations Resume
At the same time, UPS Worldport services resumed that evening with its Next Day Air also known as nighttime process, representative a representative stated. All three tarmacs at the airport were likewise reopened.
The sorting center in the city is the company’s largest. The center hires over 20,000 workers in the region, handles numerous flights per day and organizes more than 400,000 parcels each hour.
Community Reaction
A memorial was organized on the night of recently by the regional Teamsters Union, which represents employees at the aviation hub, the company’s primary air cargo hub.
The union chapter, which stands for staff, started the gathering with a quiet tribute at the evening hour, the rough time of the accident before.
“This event was so abrupt, so unforeseen,” the mayor addressed the crowd of 200. “No one had a moment to say goodbye to each of those who we have said farewell to.”
