UPS plane crashes on takeoff from Louisville, Kentucky, airport, igniting huge fire on ground - WTOP News

A UPS cargo plane crashed shortly after taking off from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport in Kentucky, sparking a massive fire on the ground. The incident occurred around 5:15 p.m. local time on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The aircraft, a McDonnell Douglas MD-11 built in 1991, was en route to Honolulu when the crash happened near the southern edge of the airport. Witnesses and local authorities quickly reported seeing a huge fireball and a thick plume of black smoke rising near the airport property. The crash site was identified at the intersection of Fern Valley Road and Grade Lane, an area on the outskirts of the airport grounds. Firefighters and emergency responders rushed to the scene, battling large flames that spread from a parking lot as debris scattered around. The Louisville Metro Police Department confirmed injuries were reported but have yet to release details about the number or severity. They issued a shelter-in-place order for residents within a five-mile radius of the airport, urging people to stay indoors and avoid the area for their safety. Police also warned the public to keep clear of the crash site due to ongoing firefighting efforts and potential hazards from the wreckage. Governor Andy Beshear of Kentucky acknowledged the crash on social media, expressing concern and asking for prayers for the pilots, crew, and those affected. First responders remain on site working to control the fire and assess the situation. The FAA is conducting an investigation into the cause of the crash, while UPS has not yet released an official statement. This tragic event has disrupted normal operations at the Louisville airport, a major hub for cargo flights, and raised concerns about the safety protocols for older aircraft like the MD-11. The incident has drawn widespread attention with numerous photos and videos circulating on social media, showing the fire and smoke that darkened the sky. As investigations continue, authorities are focused on rescue efforts and preventing further harm to the nearby community.