A UPS cargo aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff near Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport on Tuesday evening, November 4, prompting an emergency response and a temporary shelter-in-place order across multiple areas of Kentucky’s largest city. The aircraft, a McDonnell Douglas MD-11, was carrying three crewmembers at the time of the incident.
In an official statement, UPS confirmed the crash and said it is awaiting more information from authorities.
“At approximately 5:20 PM ET tonight, UPS Flight 2976 from Louisville, KY, to Honolulu, an MD-11 with three crewmembers onboard, was involved in an accident in Louisville. At this time, we have not confirmed any injuries or casualties,” the company said. UPS added that the NTSB will lead the investigation, and further updates will follow.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) also confirmed the crash, noting the aircraft went down shortly after departing for Honolulu’s Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. Emergency services responded to reports of an explosion near Fern Valley Road and Grade Lane, close to the airport perimeter. Louisville Metro Police reported multiple calls related to fire and debris in the area.
34-year-old MD-11 freighter involved
Flight data platform FlightRadar24 identified the aircraft as N259UP, a 34-year-old MD-11(F) airplane that entered UPS cargo service in 2006. The MD-11, originally designed for long-haul operations, has been gradually phased out by major carriers in recent years.
Authorities issued a shelter-in-place order shortly after the crash, first for a five-mile radius around the airport and later expanded north to the Ohio River due to heavy smoke and airborne debris.
The FAA and NTSB have begun a joint investigation into the cause of the crash. As of now, no casualties or injuries have been officially confirmed, and officials have not identified what led to the aircraft going down.
FAQs: UPS plane crash in Louisville
What happened in the UPS plane crash?
A UPS MD-11 cargo aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff from Louisville airport on November 4 while en route to Honolulu.
How many people were onboard?
UPS confirmed three crew members were onboard.
Where did the crash occur?
Near Fern Valley Road and Grade Lane, close to the airport and UPS Worldport hub.
Was anyone injured?
No confirmed injuries or fatalities yet; investigation ongoing.
Why was a shelter-in-place issued?
Due to smoke and potential debris; later extended to areas north of the airport.
What aircraft was involved?
A McDonnell Douglas MD-11(F), about 34 years old, in UPS service since 2006.
Who is investigating?
The FAA and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
