Flight operations at Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport in Kentucky have been suspended after a UPS cargo plane carrying a significant amount of fuel crashed shortly after takeoff on Tuesday evening. Emergency responders remain on site as fires continue to burn in the crash zone, according to initial updates from authorities.
The aircraft, a McDonnell Douglas MD-11F, was operating as UPS Flight 5X2976 / UPS2976 and was bound for Honolulu when it went down moments after departure. UPS confirmed there were three crew members on board, and authorities are working to establish their status.
In an advisory posted on X, the airport announced a complete temporary shutdown of air traffic:
“At this time, all arriving and departing flights at SDF are temporarily suspended and the airfield is closed. Passengers should closely monitor their flight status via their airline’s website or mobile app.”
Fire crews and airport emergency personnel are attempting to contain flames and secure the area due to the presence of aircraft fuel, which continues to feed parts of the blaze.
The cause of the crash is not yet known, and investigations are expected to involve federal aviation safety agencies.
Passengers have been advised to check with their airlines for updates as flights remain halted.
Further updates are awaited from aviation authorities and emergency services.
