Kentucky governor expects many casualties from UPS MD-11F crash

Kentucky Governor Anticipates Increasing Casualties in UPS MD-11F Crash

A UPS Boeing MD-11 freighter crashed into a petroleum services facility shortly after takeoff from Louisville on November 4, causing significant destruction, a large fire, and multiple casualties.

Crash Details and Casualties

The aircraft, carrying three crew members, was operating flight 2976 from UPS’s Louisville hub to Honolulu. It went down at approximately 17:11 local time shortly after takeoff.

“We believe we have at least three fatalities. I believe that number is going to get larger,” said Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear. “We have at least 11 injuries. I think that that number will get larger.”

Impact on Businesses and Environment

The plane hit a building run by a petroleum services company, triggering a massive fire. Officials implemented a “shelter-in-place” order for local residents due to potential hazards after the crash. Although the aircraft was not carrying hazardous materials, environmental risks remain due to the crash’s impact.

“We believe the main area hit consisted of two businesses, but more may have been impacted,” Beshear stated. “Anyone who has seen the images or the video know how violent this crash was.”

One business struck was Kentucky Petroleum Recycling, described by Beshear as “hit pretty directly.” The other known business affected was Grade A Auto Parts.

Source and Timeline

The incident was reported by Jon Hemmerdinger on November 5, 2025, referencing the crash on November 4 near Louisville.


Summary: The UPS MD-11 crash near Louisville caused a deadly fire, multiple injuries, and disrupted local businesses, with authorities warning casualties and environmental risks may rise.

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FlightGlobal FlightGlobal — 2025-11-05