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Sunday 22/02/2026

Tragic UPS Cargo Plane Crash in Kentucky Leaves Seven Dead and Sparks Major Investigation

UPS MD-11 cargo plane crash with fire at airport
Ethan BrooksEthan Brooks

In This Article

HIGHLIGHTS

  • A UPS cargo plane crashed during takeoff at Louisville International Airport, Kentucky, killing at least seven people and injuring 11 others.
  • The crash occurred at approximately 17:15 local time on Tuesday, with the aircraft striking nearby buildings and causing a massive fire.
  • The MD-11 aircraft was carrying 38,000 gallons of fuel, contributing to the extensive blaze and prompting a shelter-in-place order.
  • The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will lead the investigation into the crash, with a team arriving on Wednesday.
  • Officials have not confirmed the cause of the crash, but the plane was not carrying hazardous cargo.

A devastating crash involving a UPS cargo plane at Louisville International Airport in Kentucky has resulted in at least seven fatalities and 11 injuries. The incident occurred on Tuesday evening at approximately 17:15 local time, when the aircraft, an MD-11 model, failed to successfully take off and collided with nearby structures, igniting a massive fire.

Crash Details and Immediate Impact

The ill-fated flight, bound for Honolulu, was carrying three crew members, all feared dead, along with 38,000 gallons of fuel. The fuel's presence significantly exacerbated the fire, which spread to several buildings, including Kentucky Petroleum Recycling and Grade A Auto Parts. The blaze prompted officials to issue a shelter-in-place order initially covering a five-mile radius, later reduced to one mile as emergency crews worked to contain the flames.

Emergency Response and Investigation

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear confirmed the fatalities and expressed concerns that the death toll could rise as search efforts continue. Two employees from the impacted auto parts business remain unaccounted for. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is set to lead a comprehensive investigation into the crash, with their team arriving on Wednesday to assess the scene.

Community and Official Reactions

Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg urged residents to report any debris found in their neighborhoods and advised against handling it. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Boeing, which acquired the MD-11 program, have pledged support for the investigation. The crash has led to the cancellation of all departing flights from the airport on Tuesday night, as authorities prioritize safety and recovery efforts.

WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN

As the NTSB begins its investigation, the focus will be on determining the cause of the crash, with particular attention to the aircraft's mechanical condition and operational procedures. The findings could have significant implications for aviation safety protocols, especially concerning older aircraft models like the MD-11. In the meantime, the local community remains on high alert, with ongoing safety assessments and recovery operations. The incident underscores the critical importance of emergency preparedness and response in mitigating the impact of aviation accidents.

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Additional article image
Image Source: CBS