UPS MD-11F Cargo Jet Crashes Near Louisville Airport, Killing at Least 7

A UPS Airlines cargo aircraft operating as Flight 2976 crashed shortly after takeoff from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport on Tuesday evening, resulting in at least seven fatalities, multiple injuries, and significant structural damage near the airfield.

The aircraft involved was a McDonnell Douglas MD-11F, registered as N259UP, en route to Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu, Hawaii. The crash occurred at approximately 5:13 PM local time, just south of the airport near Fern Valley Road and Grade Lane.

Emergency responders arrived to contain the massive fire that engulfed nearby buildings, including a petroleum recycling facility and an auto parts shop. Authorities issued a shelter in place order within a five mile radius of the airport due to explosions and hazardous debris.

According to local officials, at least 11 people were injured, and two remain missing. The condition of the three crew members aboard the aircraft has not been officially confirmed. Governor Andy Beshear stated that the identities of the deceased and whether they were on board or on the ground are still under investigation.