A United Parcel Service cargo plane traveling from Louisville, Kentucky, to Birmingham, Alabama, crashed and burst into flames early Wednesday morning. UPS Flight 1354's two passengers, a pilot and co-pilot, have died, Birmingham Mayor William Bell told CNN.
It's still unclear what caused the crash. As of 7 a.m., two hours after the accident, crews reportedly had the fire under control.
Witnesses told AL.com that they heard "up to five explosions" after the crash. The Airbus A306's detached front cabin was strewn about 50 yards from the fuselage.
"As we work through this difficult situation, we ask for your patience, and that you keep those involved in your thoughts and prayers," UPS said in a statement.
The National Transit Safety Board has launched an investigation into the crash. Local affiliate WHAS reports that an airport spokeswoman says the crash hasn't impacted daily operations.
More images of the blaze:
#BREAKING Crazy photo of a UPS plane crash in Birmingham, Alabama.
Kevin Michael TV
@KallMeKG
#BREAKING Crazy photo of a UPS plane crash in Birmingham, Alabama.
NEW IMAGE: Sister station in Birmingham @Alabamas13 has new pics of UPS plane crash
KARE 11
@kare11
NEW IMAGE: Sister station in Birmingham @Alabamas13 has new pics of UPS plane crash
Fireball! A UPS plane crashes on approach in Birmingham, AL. No word on casualties.
KIRO 7
@KIRO7Seattle
Fireball! A UPS plane crashes on approach in Birmingham, AL. No word on casualties.
PHOTOS: UPS Airbus A300 Cargo Plane Crash in Birmingham, AL http://t.co/tC382ChYVB #News19 #BREAKING
WLTX - On Your Side
@WLTX
PHOTOS: UPS Airbus A300 Cargo Plane Crash in Birmingham, AL http://t.co/tC382ChYVB #News19 #BREAKING
