Louisville plane crash horror: UPS cargo jet erupts into fireball near airport, multiple casualties feared
Louisville, Kentucky—A routine cargo flight turned into a devastating tragedy on Tuesday evening when a UPS aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff from the Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport, setting off massive explosions and fires that engulfed nearby buildings. Officials have confirmed multiple injuries and warned that the death toll could rise as rescue operations continue into the night.
Emergency response teams described the scene as “catastrophic,” with thick black smoke towering above the city skyline. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear urged residents to stay indoors, warning of potential explosions and hazardous air quality following the fiery impact.
The ill-fated aircraft, identified as a McDonnell Douglas MD-11F, was en route to Honolulu, Hawaii—a 4,300-mile journey. The plane was loaded with approximately 38,000 gallons (144,000 liters) of jet fuel, which fueled the inferno that spread rapidly to nearby auto and recycling businesses. Two employees of the auto repair shop hit by the aircraft remain unaccounted for, while at least 11 people were reported injured.
UPS confirmed that three crew members were aboard the flight, though their conditions remain unknown. The company released a statement expressing “deep sadness” and suspended all night operations at UPS Worldport, its global logistics hub located at the Louisville airport—its largest facility worldwide.
Firefighters battled intense flames for hours, supported by over 100 emergency personnel. Louisville Fire Chief Brian O’Neal described the crash site as “an extremely dangerous environment” due to the massive fuel spill and risk of secondary explosions. An initial shelter-in-place order covering a five-mile radius around the airport was later reduced to one mile as crews began containing the blaze.
Images and videos circulating online showed terrifying scenes of the crash site—a bright fireball illuminating the night sky, followed by thick, billowing plumes of smoke. The blast reportedly impacted two commercial buildings, one belonging to a petroleum recycling firm, increasing fears of toxic emissions.
Governor Beshear, addressing the press, called it “a tough night for the city” and emphasized that the cause of the crash remains under investigation. “Anyone who’s seen the images knows how violent this crash was,” he said. “There are still flammable materials and explosive hazards on-site.”
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has deployed a team of investigators to Louisville to determine what went wrong. Officials say it’s too early to speculate, but all signs point to an issue shortly after takeoff.
The aircraft itself had a long operational history—first serving as a passenger jet with Thai Airways 34 years ago before being converted to a cargo plane for UPS in 2006. Both UPS and FedEx have recently announced plans to retire their aging MD-11 fleets, replacing them with more modern and fuel-efficient models.
Boeing, which acquired McDonnell Douglas in 1997, issued a statement expressing sympathy and pledged to assist investigators. “Our thoughts are with all those affected,” the company said, adding that it would provide full technical support to the NTSB.
Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg described the crash as “a tragedy our community will never forget.” He praised firefighters and first responders “for their courage in the face of unimaginable danger.” Meanwhile, city council member Betsy Ruhe noted that nearly every Louisville resident has ties to UPS, underscoring how deeply the event has shaken the local community.
As the city mourns, investigators continue combing through debris, searching for answers—and possibly survivors. For now, Louisville remains cloaked in grief, smoke, and uncertainty.
FAQs
1. What type of aircraft was involved in the crash?
The plane was a McDonnell Douglas MD-11F cargo aircraft operated by UPS.
2. Where did the crash happen?
It occurred near the Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport in Kentucky, close to the UPS Worldport facility.
3. How many people were onboard?
UPS confirmed three crew members were onboard the flight at the time of the crash.
4. What caused the crash?
The cause is still under investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
5. Was the plane carrying hazardous materials?
Officials said the aircraft was not carrying materials that pose additional contamination risks.