Louisville has released the following statements regarding d…
On November 4, 2025, a UPS cargo plane (Flight 2976) en route to Honolulu crashed shortly after takeoff from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF), bursting into flames and scattering debris across nearby areas. The incident prompted immediate emergency responses, shelter-in-place orders for residents north of the airport to the Ohio River, and a state of emergency declaration by Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear to mobilize resources, including the National Guard.
Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg released multiple statements expressing profound grief and solidarity with victims’ families. In one update, he stated: “My heart is with the families, friends and colleagues of all who were lost in this week’s tragedy. We will get through this together.” By November 6, the death toll rose to at least 13, with several individuals still missing and coroners working to identify remains amid challenging conditions from fire damage. The crash site included hot spots persisting for days, requiring over 100 firefighters.
UPS issued an official statement acknowledging the tragedy: “This is particularly true in Louisville, home to our airline and thousands of UPSers. We are engaged with the National Transportation Safety Board’s investigation of the accident and are staying in close contact with the Federal Aviation Administration. We will work tirelessly with state and local authorities on response efforts.” The company halted operations at Worldport that night, canceling Next Day Air sorts and sending employees home. UPS CEO Carol Tomé later emphasized the company’s commitment to safety, care, and community, noting global support for affected UPSers.
The NTSB led the investigation, releasing preliminary flight data and assessing environmental impacts, including potential downstream effects on the Salt River and Ohio River. Louisville drinking water was confirmed safe. Airport operations partially resumed with two of three runways reopened by November 5, though restrictions began November 7. The Louisville Regional Airport Authority expressed ongoing support for victims and the community.
Governor Beshear urged prayers for pilots, crew, and all affected, describing the day as “heartbreaking” for Kentucky. First responders faced intense scenes, with the University of Louisville Health burn unit activating disaster mode. Community impacts included extended shelter-in-place orders and assessments of broader harm.
