Kentucky News

UPS Cargo Plane Crashes Near Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport

11/4/2025

UPS Cargo Plane Crashes Near Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport

Emergency crews are on the scene of a major plane crash near Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport Tuesday evening.

According to officials, multiple agencies have responded to the area of Fern Valley Road and Grade Lane, just south of the airport, after a UPS cargo plane reportedly went down. The aircraft, identified as UPS Flight 2976 — a McDonnell Douglas MD-11 operated by UPS Airlines — had recently departed from the UPS Worldport facility in Louisville before the crash occurred.

Early dispatch reports indicate the plane collided with a building, sparking a massive explosion and fire that quickly spread to several nearby structures. Fire crews from across the region are working to contain the blaze.

Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport has been temporarily closed to both arriving and departing flights as emergency operations continue. A shelter-in-place order has been issued for a five-mile radius surrounding the airport due to the heavy smoke and ongoing fire.

Witnesses reported a large plume of smoke visible shortly after 5:30 p.m. Police have confirmed that injuries have occurred, though the number and severity remain unconfirmed at this time.

Grade Lane remains closed indefinitely between Stooge and Crittenden Drive as firefighters, police, and emergency management teams continue to secure the area. Louisville Metro Police Department officials say the situation is still developing.

This report was compiled using information gathered from law enforcement statements, official press releases, and publicly available news sources.
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