UPS Cargo Plane Crashes Near Louisville Airport, Killing At Least Nine

Tragic Crash Near Louisville Airport Claims At Least Nine Lives

Louisville, KY – A UPS McDonnell Douglas MD-11F cargo plane, operating as Flight 2976, crashed on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, shortly after departing from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF). The tragic incident, which occurred around 5:15 p.m. local time, has resulted in the deaths of at least nine people and left 11 injured. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear indicated that the death toll was expected to rise.

The aircraft, bound for Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu, Hawaii, went down approximately three miles south of the airfield in an industrial area off Grade Lane. Videos captured by onlookers showed flames on the plane's left wing during takeoff, followed by a massive explosion upon impact. The crash ignited a significant fire, engulfing several buildings, including a petroleum recycling facility and an auto parts shop.

Investigation Underway by NTSB and FAA

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have launched a full investigation into the cause of the crash. Twenty-eight NTSB investigators are on the ground, working to piece together evidence. While the exact cause remains undetermined, preliminary flight data from FlightRadar24 indicated the three-engine MD-11 plane briefly reached an altitude of 175 feet after takeoff. An aviation expert suggested that a catastrophic engine failure could have propelled hot parts into the fuel tanks or fuselage, initiating a fire while the aircraft was still on its takeoff roll.

The aircraft, registration N259UP, was built in 1991. Officials confirmed that the plane was carrying approximately 38,000 gallons (233,000 pounds) of jet fuel and up to 20,000 packages, but no hazardous materials were on board.

Casualties and Community Impact

The fatalities include at least four people on the ground, with the three crew members also presumed to be among the deceased. Of the 11 injured individuals, some are in critical condition and receiving treatment at UofL Hospital's Burn Center. UofL Health reported receiving 15 patients in total, with 13 discharged by the following morning. Additionally, 16 families have reported loved ones unaccounted for.

The crash led to the temporary closure of Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport, though it reopened the following morning. A shelter-in-place order was issued for surrounding areas, later reduced to a quarter-mile radius around the crash site. Over 200 first responders, including 100 firefighters, were deployed to the scene. A family reunification site has been established at the Louisville Metro Police Department Training Academy. Residents have been urged not to touch any debris from the crash, which has been found in various locations.

UPS Worldport Operations Affected

The incident marks the deadliest crash in UPS Airlines' history. The Louisville airport is home to UPS Worldport, the company's largest global package handling facility. Operations at the Worldport were significantly impacted, with the Second Day Air sort cancelled and employees advised not to report to work on Wednesday.