Tragic Crash: UPS Cargo Plane Claims Lives in Kentucky

Wed Nov 05 2025 12:17:41 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A UPS cargo plane was involved in a devastating crash shortly after takeoff from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport, resulting in at least seven fatalities and multiple injuries.

A UPS cargo plane crash in Louisville, Kentucky, resulted in the deaths of at least seven people, including crew members, and injured eleven others. The aircraft exploded after taking off, sending thick smoke into the sky and impacting nearby buildings. Authorities issued a shelter-in-place order due to safety concerns as the investigation into the crash begins.

Seven people were killed when a UPS cargo plane crashed while taking off from an airport in Louisville, Kentucky on Tuesday evening, the state's governor said.

At least 11 other people were injured when the freight plane exploded as it departed Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport at around 17:15 local time (22:15 GMT), sending thick plumes of black smoke into the sky.

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear stated that the plane's three crew members were likely among those who died, commenting that, Anyone who has seen the images and the video knows how violent this crash is. Officials indicated that those injured suffered very significant injuries and the death toll could rise.

UPS flight 2976, bound for Honolulu, Hawaii, was carrying 38,000 gallons (144,000 litres) of fuel when it skidded off the runway in Louisville and hit nearby buildings, resulting in explosions that engulfed at least two nearby businesses, including a petroleum recycling company. An initial shelter-in-place order was issued for a five-mile radius due to fears of further explosions and air pollution before being reduced to just one mile.

In a statement, the Louisville Metro Police Department Chief mentioned the crash site would be an ongoing active scene for the next several days. The cause of the incident remains unknown, with the National Transportation Safety Bureau (NTSB) leading the investigation.

As firefighting efforts continue, Louisville's Mayor and local officials expressed their grief, with UPS stating they are terribly saddened and committed to supporting those affected. The investigation continues as the community grapples with the tragic loss.

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