A UPS cargo plane crashed near Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport Tuesday evening, shortly after takeoff, sparking flames and prompting a five-mile shelter-in-place order for nearby residents. The McDonnell Douglas MD-11, UPS Flight 2976, bound for Honolulu, went down around 5:15 p.m., sending thick black smoke over the city. Witnesses described explosions and a fireball lighting up the sky.
Emergency responders, including firefighters, paramedics, and airport teams, rushed to the scene. Multiple injuries were reported, though details on fatalities remain unclear. The FAA and NTSB have launched a joint investigation into the cause. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear urged calm and prayers for those affected.
The crash occurred near UPS’s Worldport hub, with surrounding warehouses and residential areas raising concerns about environmental hazards from burning fuel and cargo. The airport temporarily closed, diverting flights, while hazmat teams tested air quality. Residents reported hearing successive explosions for hours.
UPS confirmed the incident and expressed concern for those involved, promising to cooperate with investigators. Experts noted the MD-11’s complex flight profile can contribute to takeoff and landing accidents. Investigators will review flight data, maintenance logs, and pilot communications.
As the fire smoldered into the night, residents watched the glow and shared updates on social media. The NTSB will deploy a specialized team to Louisville, with preliminary findings expected in days, though a full report may take months. Hospitals have received multiple patients, and the shelter-in-place remains active.
The crash has raised renewed scrutiny over cargo flight safety, particularly for MD-11 aircraft. Louisville, home to UPS’s largest air hub, faces shock and concern for the crew and community, as investigators comb the wreckage for answers.