Louisville, KY – UPS Cargo Plane Crashes at Louisville Airport Killing Seven

Louisville, KY (November 5, 2025) – A UPS cargo plane burst into flames and crashed on Tuesday, November 4, while taking off from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport, leaving at least seven people dead and 11 others injured.

According to the Louisville Metro Police, the crash happened around 5:15 p.m. as the McDonnell Douglas MD-11 aircraft was departing UPS Worldport for Honolulu. Witnesses reported seeing flames and heavy smoke coming from the plane’s left wing before it lifted briefly off the ground and exploded in a massive fireball.

Officials said four of the victims were not aboard the aircraft but were nearby when the crash occurred. Among the 11 injured, several sustained life-threatening burns and trauma-related injuries. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear confirmed the severity of the situation, describing the crash as “extremely violent.”

Fire crews and emergency responders worked for hours to extinguish the flames and secure the area. Portions of a nearby building sustained significant damage, including a shredded roof near the end of the runway. Louisville Metro Police Chief Paul Humphrey reported that the area would remain closed until investigators could fully assess the scene.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched an investigation, deploying a team of 28 experts to determine what caused the tragic accident. Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg expressed condolences to the victims’ families and acknowledged the impact the crash had on the local community.

Our deepest sympathies go out to all families affected by this devastating event.

Aviation Accidents in Kentucky

Aviation accidents in Louisville can result in catastrophic injuries and loss of life, leaving families with overwhelming grief and financial burdens. Crashes involving large aircraft, commercial vehicles, or industrial sites often cause widespread damage, fires, and secondary injuries to nearby workers and residents.

Common causes of catastrophic aviation and industrial accidents include:

• Mechanical or engine failure due to improper maintenance or inspection
• Pilot error during takeoff, landing, or emergency maneuvers
• Fuel leaks or electrical malfunctions leading to onboard fires or explosions
• Defective parts or design flaws in aircraft or cargo systems

Victims and their families may have grounds for a wrongful death claim or personal injury lawsuit if negligence, improper maintenance, or equipment failure played a role in the crash. A skilled wrongful death lawyer in Louisville can help identify liable parties—whether an airline, manufacturer, or maintenance contractor—and pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, or funeral costs.

Families dealing with wrongful death cases deserve legal support that combines compassion and experience. Working with an attorney ensures that all evidence is preserved, expert testimony is obtained, and insurance companies are held accountable for fair compensation.

At Byrnes Law Office, we represent victims and families affected by tragic aviation accidents and large-scale industrial crashes throughout Kentucky. Our firm investigates complex cases thoroughly, handles communications with state and federal agencies, and fights tirelessly to secure justice for those harmed by negligence.

If you or someone you love has been injured or lost their life in a Louisville accident, contact Byrnes Law Office today at (502) 364-2500 for a free consultation. Our dedicated Kentucky attorneys are here to stand by your side and help you find justice after unimaginable loss.

Note: Our writers use external sources such as news briefs, police scanners, and eyewitness reports when creating this post. While we aim for accuracy, the information hasn't been independently verified by our team. If you spot any errors, please inform us promptly for correction. If you'd like the post removed, please contact us, and we'll act swiftly. Your feedback helps us uphold our standards.

Disclaimer: Byrnes Law Office is dedicated to improving safety for Kentucky drivers. Our goal is to raise awareness about the dangers of driving and the need to use caution. This is not a solicitation for business, and none of the information constitutes legal or medical advice. Photos in this post are not of the actual accident scene.