UPS Cargo Plane Crashes Near Louisville Airport

A devastating crash involving a UPS cargo jet has rocked Louisville. The McDonnell Douglas MD-11F, operating as UPS Flight 2976, went down shortly after taking off from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport on Tuesday evening, November 4, 2025. The plane was bound for Honolulu, Hawaii, but it crashed into an industrial area less than a mile from the runway, sparking explosions and widespread destruction.

Casualties

Authorities reported at least nine deaths, including three crew members. Eleven people suffered injuries, while sixteen families said their loved ones are missing. The crash also killed four people on the ground when the plane struck several nearby businesses.

Witness Reports

Witnesses described frightening scenes. “The plane was on fire before it even got high off the ground,” said a worker near the airport. Video footage shows flames shooting from the left wing moments before the aircraft stalled and slammed into the ground. The impact triggered a massive explosion, fueled by 38,000 gallons of jet fuel, and started multiple fires around nearby facilities.

More than 200 emergency responders fought the flames for several hours. Authorities instructed nearby residents to shelter in place as heavy smoke and possible chemical fumes spread through the area.

UPS Statement

UPS Airlines expressed deep sorrow in a statement Wednesday morning: “We are heartbroken by the loss of our team members in the Louisville incident. Our focus is on supporting their families and everyone affected.”

The company halted operations at its Worldport hub, the largest UPS sorting facility globally, and grounded outgoing flights as federal investigators arrived on-site.

Investigation

Investigators believe the 34-year-old MD-11F (N259UP) may have suffered a catastrophic engine failure shortly after takeoff. Several witnesses heard loud pops before seeing flames trail from the left wing. The NTSB is reviewing flight recorders and maintenance logs to uncover the cause. Officials are examining both mechanical issues and crew performance as possible factors.

Aftermath

Louisville remains in mourning as recovery efforts continue. Flags at UPS facilities nationwide are at half-staff, and a reunification center has been opened for affected families.

The tragedy stands as one of the worst cargo aviation accidents in recent years, casting a heavy shadow over the city and the UPS community.

More…

• https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ce86gneqvz1o
• https://www.wlky.com/article/louisville-plane-crash-state-of-emergency/69264486
• https://www.wave3.com/2025/11/04/crews-reporting-large-fire-muhammad-ali-airport-after-reported-plane-crash/