Authorities have released all currently available information regarding the recent tragic crash, including testimony from a man who was preparing to board another flight at Louisville airport.
What began as a routine Tuesday evening turned catastrophic when UPS Flight 2976 went down shortly after takeoff near Louisville, Kentucky, on November 4, 2025. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed the incident later that night.
FAA Statement and Ongoing Investigation
The crash occurred around 5:15 p.m. local time after the McDonnell Douglas MD-11 aircraft departed Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport, bound for Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu.
In a post shared on social media, the FAA stated, “The FAA and NTSB will investigate. The NTSB will lead the investigation and will provide all updates.” The agency added that the information released was “preliminary and subject to change” as the situation continues to unfold at the crash site.
The tragedy has deeply shaken the Louisville community and the state at large. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear expressed his grief publicly, writing, “Please, pray for the families affected, Louisville, and all of Kentucky. We are hurting right now after a heartbreaking day.”
Officials Address the Public
During an emotional press conference held soon after the crash, officials cautioned that the situation could become even more difficult in the coming hours. They reaffirmed that the investigation was still in its early stages and that updates would follow as more information became available.
A representative noted, “I can’t confirm that there was no specifically hazardous cargo onboard the plane that might create an environmental risk to those near the crash site. However, the force and location of the impact could lead to such concerns. If a shelter-in-place order is issued, please follow it.”
Emergency Response Efforts
A massive emergency response was launched immediately after the crash. Among the agencies on the scene are the Kentucky National Guard, Kentucky Office of Homeland Security, Louisville Fire Department, Lexington Fire Department, Bardstown Fire Department, Shepherdsville Fire Department, Louisville Emergency Management, Fern Creek Fire Department, and Pleasure Ridge Park Fire Department.
Other responding departments include Fairdale Fire Department, Anchorage Middletown Fire Department, Jeffersontown Fire Department, Airport Police Department, Louisville Metro Police, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Saint Matthews Police Department, Shively Police Department, Kentucky State Police, Louisville Metro EMS, MSD, Louisville Gas and Electric, and Kentucky Emergency Management.
Casualty Reports
Authorities confirmed at least three fatalities so far, with eleven others injured—some critically and receiving care at nearby hospitals. Officials cautioned that these numbers could increase as recovery operations continue. The condition of the flight crew remains unknown at this time. Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses.