Louisville, KY – November 5, 2025 – A deadly crash involving a UPS cargo plane has claimed at least 12 lives, with 11 confirmed dead and several others injured. The crash occurred on the evening of November 4, 2025, shortly after the plane took off from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport.
What Happened
UPS Flight 2976, a McDonnell Douglas MD-11F, crashed shortly after departing for Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu. The aircraft, which had a crew of three, was carrying 280,000 gallons of fuel when it crashed, resulting in an intense fire and widespread damage. The plane was seen bursting into flames, and emergency crews responded swiftly to contain the blaze.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), led by Todd Inman, confirmed that the left engine detached from the aircraft during takeoff, causing a large plume of fire. The NTSB has recovered both the Flight Data Recorder and the Cockpit Voice Recorder (commonly known as black boxes) and is currently investigating the incident. Initial reports indicated that both black boxes suffered from heat but had no significant damage from the crash or fire.
Victims and Injuries
According to Gov. Andy Beshear, the death toll from the crash has risen to 12, with one of the victims being a child. The identities of the victims have not yet been fully released, but it is known that some of the victims were crew members, and several individuals were transported to local hospitals. 15 patients were admitted across several hospitals, with two still in critical condition.
The crash left a half-mile debris field and has prompted authorities to issue several road closures in the area. Grade Lane and surrounding roads remain blocked as investigations continue. UPS has suspended operations at Worldport, its global air hub in Louisville, as a result of the crash.
Fire and Emergency Response
Hundreds of firefighters responded to the scene to contain the blaze. The aircraft’s intense fire, fueled by the large amount of jet fuel, posed significant challenges to the fire crews. At the scene, Jeffersonville Police and Louisville Metro Police (LMPD) issued a shelter-in-place order for residents within a quarter-mile radius of the airport due to concerns about smoke and debris.
Ongoing Investigation and Statements
FBI agents are assisting in the investigation, alongside the NTSB and local authorities. Investigators are focusing on the moment the plane’s left engine detached and the exact cause of the crash. The NTSB is expected to spend the next week in Louisville conducting their investigation.
In addition to the investigation, Mayor Craig Greenberg and Gov. Andy Beshear have both expressed their condolences, with Greenberg stating, “Our hearts go out to the families affected by this devastating crash. We are committed to providing support and working with emergency responders.”
Community Impact and Reactions
In response to the tragedy, UPS has offered support for employees and the families of victims, including setting up a Family Reunification Area at the LMPD Training Facility for those seeking loved ones. UPS has also canceled shifts at Worldport for the following days.
Meanwhile, local schools in Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) are closed on November 5, as the district has issued a snow day due to the ongoing emergency situation. Air and water quality will be monitored around the crash site to ensure the safety of students and staff.
Closing
The crash of UPS Flight 2976 is a devastating tragedy for the Louisville community and the aviation industry. As authorities continue to investigate the causes of the crash, they are urging anyone with information to come forward. The recovery efforts and support for the victims’ families are ongoing, and the NTSB is expected to provide further updates in the coming days.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
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