NTSB Releases Initial Findings amid Investigation Into Deadly UPS Plane Crash in Kentucky

Federal investigators have confirmed that a UPS cargo plane’s left engine detached during takeoff before the aircraft crashed just beyond the runway at Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport, killing several people. The harrowing incident quickly sparked reactions on social media.

Video footage, physical evidence, and initial analysis have guided the National Transportation Safety Board’s (NTSB) early conclusions.

Flight Struggled After Liftoff

The crash reportedly occurred at approximately 5:15 p.m. on November 4, 2025, involving a McDonnell Douglas MD-11F en route to Honolulu.

NTSB spokesperson Todd Inman explained that while the plane was able to clear the runway fence, it struggled shortly after. “The plane lifted off and gained enough altitude to clear the fence at the end of Runway 17R. Shortly after clearing that fence, it made impact with structures and the terrain off of the airport property,” he said.

Extreme Force Behind Engine Failure

The plane’s violent impact and the separation of the left engine caused significant damage. “Now, this engine was on the left side of the airplane when it came off. That’s a 5-ton engine that was thrown across the runway and into the grass area on the right side,” said CBS News’ Kris Van Cleave, underscoring the extreme forces involved.

Video footage from the runway revealed flames and smoke from the right wing, potentially due to debris from the failed left engine. “So, it is possible that there were issues with two of the plane’s three engines as it was trying to take off,” Van Cleave added.

Flight Recorders Found Intact

Despite intense flames from the crash, NTSB investigators have identified and examined the plane’s black boxes. “You could very easily tell that it was a black box by two types of cylinders on top,” Inman said.

The boxes were exposed to heat, but investigators remain optimistic about data recovery. Ingman added, “Luckily, they were not in a post-impact fire for multiple days or on the bottom of the ocean. So while the fire may have been intense, it is built to withstand that.”

Inman noted that airport security footage captured the moment the engine separated during takeoff. “We have viewed airport CCTV security coverage, which shows the left engine detaching from the wing during the takeoff roll,” he confirmed.

Mayor Shares Update on Crash Victims

As the investigation continues, Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg addressed the public about the crash, confirming that 12 people died in the incident. He said, “We believe that 3 of them are likely the crew and then 9 others, all of whom are those 9 are unidentified at this point in time.”

The mayor also mentioned that 15 families were seeking information at the family assistance center operated by Louisville Metro Police (LMPD) at their training facility on Taylor Boulevard.

The crash drew widespread reaction across social media. “How can that happen? They all go through thorough safety inspections before leaving the ground!! 😱😢😢😢😢,” one stunned viewer wrote. Another speculated, “Looks like sabotage or a maintenance error,” while a third warned, “Look into the mechanics I’ve said this is not normal !”

A netizen reflected, “Those poor pilots doing everything they could to save the airplane and they’re lives. Prayers for all of those effected [sic] by the crash. ✝️” Another questioned, “Do you think it might have something to do with the fact that the plane has been flying since 1991?”

One commenter shared, “Prayers for the families that lost a loved one as well as the entire UPS family.” Another added, “That is so horrific, how absolutely terrifying for those on board.”

This follows earlier reports from November 5, when the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed it would join the NTSB in the case, and local officials provided initial details about the crash and emergency response.

FAA Issues Statement as Investigators Scope the Crash Site

In an official statement shared on social media, the FAA noted, “The FAA and NTSB will investigate. The NTSB will lead the investigation and will provide all updates.” Officials also emphasized, “This information is preliminary and subject to change,” as details continue to emerge from the crash site.

The crash has sent shockwaves through the local community and beyond. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear expressed his sorrow in a public post, penning, “Please, pray for the families affected, Louisville and [sic] all of Kentucky. We are hurting right now after a heartbreaking day.”

Authorities Speak on the Tragedy in Initial Press Conference

In a gripping press conference held soon after the tragedy, officials warned that things could worsen before they get better. Governor Beshear also reiterated the aforementioned points and the ongoing nature of the investigation.

“I can’t confirm that there was no specifically hazardous cargo onboard of [sic] the plane that would create an environmental issue for those around the site, but the impact and where it impacted could create those types of situations. So, please, if there is a shelter in place, follow it,” added Beshear.

​​Dozens of Emergency Agencies Swarm the Devastation

Additional agencies involved at the scene include the Kentucky National Guard, Kentucky Office of Homeland Security, the Louisville Fire Department, the Lexington Fire Department, the Bardstown Fire Department, the Shepherdsville Fire Department, Louisville Emergency Management, the Fern Creek Fire Department, and the Pleasure Ridge Park Fire Department.

Fairdale Fire Department, Anchorage Middletown Fire Department, Jefferson Town Fire Department, Airport Police Department, Louisville Metro Police, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Saint Matthews Police Department, Shively Police Department, KSP, Louisville Metro EMS, MSD, Louisville Gas and Electric, and Kentucky Emergency Management are also involved.

At Least Three Dead, and Several More Are Injured, with Numbers Expected to Rise

Initial casualty numbers were also discussed, with the then-current estimated fatalities being three and at least 11 injuries, some severe and being treated by local hospitals. These numbers are expected to grow.

Beshear also confirmed that a victim family reunification center has been established at the Louisville Metro Police Training Academy, located at 2911 Taylor Boulevard. Victim services personnel will be on-site to assist anyone seeking information about loved ones who may have been affected.

Additionally, the United Way is offering shelter and resources, and those impacted are encouraged to call 502-376-6617 for assistance.

Officials Unpack Further Details Surrounding the Harrowing Incident

The area directly hit by the crash reportedly includes two primary businesses: Kentucky Patrol and Recycling and Grade A Autoparts. While Grade A Autoparts has been able to account for most of its staff, two employees remain unaccounted for, and the company is working with officials to provide descriptions.

Due to the open and dynamic nature of these facilities — frequented by customers, contractors, and delivery drivers — the full extent of those present during the crash remains unknown. “There is no direct information about nine employees who were there at the time,” Beshear stated, adding that it may take time before responders can verify the safety of everyone who might have been on-site.

As rescue and recovery efforts continue, the shelter-in-place radius has been expanded. It now includes areas north of the airport, but not limited to, the Ohio River, South Louisville, Old Louisville, and Downtown.

LG&E confirmed that while some of its equipment was damaged, there are currently no major power outages. However, some outages may be initiated for safety.

Nearby, the Ford Motor Company plant was not directly hit, though it experienced temporary power loss. The company’s CEO has been in direct contact with local officials, and all employees are reported safe. The Convention Center, which was preparing for upcoming events, has also enacted shelter-in-place protocols, with security halting further entries to ensure public safety.

Beshear acknowledged the emotional toll of the crash, emphasizing the pain of uncertainty many families are currently facing.

“Anybody who has seen the images and the video knows how violent this crash is, and there are a lot of families that are going to be waiting and wondering for a period of time,” he said. “If this is a family you know, please give them your support. Please give them your prayers, please give them your love.”

The status of the UPS flight crew remains unknown, deepening concerns as the investigation unfolds. “We do not, at the moment, have the status of the crew,” Beshear shared. “Watching that video, I think we’re all very, very worried about them.”

Greenberg, who was out of town at the time of the incident, is reportedly returning immediately and remains fully engaged in the city’s emergency response efforts. According to Beshear, “He is moving heaven and earth to be back […] and his crew behind me is responding as well as I’ve seen any group do.”

Death Toll Continues to Rise as First Responders Do All They Can

Further updates, including airport operations and ongoing safety measures, were expected at an 8:15 p.m. briefing led by Louisville Emergency Management. Meanwhile, authorities urge patience and solidarity as they work to provide answers in the aftermath of this deeply tragic event.

As emergency crews continued working through the night following Tuesday’s catastrophic plane crash in Louisville, updated figures from local and state officials painted an increasingly grim picture. Mayor Greenburg confirmed that at least seven people have died.

Greenberg provided additional context during an evening update. “There are more than a 100 [sic] firefighters from across the region still on the scene working to make it safe for everyone in our community,” he stated.

The crash involved a UPS MD-11 cargo aircraft carrying more than 38,000 gallons of fuel. The fact that the plane went down shortly after takeoff reinforces what aviation experts often point out: takeoffs and landings are the most dangerous phases of flight.

Amid the growing heartbreak, messages of support continue to pour in from across the city. The Muhammad Ali Center, located in the heart of Louisville, issued a heartfelt statement expressing solidarity with those affected.

“[Our] hearts go out to the pilots, crewmembers, families and [sic] businesses,” their statement reads. “We are saddened to learn that there have been multiple confirmed casualties and injuries due to the incident.”

The Center also extended gratitude to first responders, “As emergency responders work throughout the evening and in the days ahead, our heartfelt thanks go out to those who keep our community safe every single day.”

With the death toll rising and dozens injured, the emotional toll continues to weigh heavily on the Louisville community, as families, businesses, and city officials brace for further updates amid a still-unfolding tragedy.

Horrific Footage and Images Show the Devastating Impact of the Crash

Disturbing surveillance footage and videos shared by people show the sheer force of the crash’s impact and its aftermath. These captured the exact moment the aircraft plunged from the sky, veering low and fast over a lot filled with parked cars before slamming into structures just beyond the frame.

In a flash, a towering fireball erupts, engulfing the background in flames and thick black smoke. In the seconds following the impact, walls of fire surged across the horizon, spreading rapidly and consuming everything in their path.

A Singer-Songwriter Provides an Account of What He Witnessed

As images of fire and devastation continued to circulate, those inside Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport experienced the unfolding tragedy from a different vantage point. Among them was Josh Mitcham, a singer and songwriter who was preparing to board a flight around the same time the UPS cargo aircraft crashed nearby.

A “stay-in-place” order was issued while Mitcham and others were already seated on their plane. The gravity of the situation became apparent quickly.

“We didn’t really know what happened,” he told CNN. “The captain came over and said that there had been an accident and that it wasn’t good and that they recommended that we go ahead and get off the plane.”

From his window seat, Mitcham noticed thick, dark smoke billowing into the sky — though he didn’t initially know the source. It wasn’t until later that he learned the smoke stemmed from the tragic crash just outside. He and fellow passengers deboarded the aircraft, and with flights suspended in the wake of the incident, Mitcham rebooked for the following day.

The disruption delayed his travel plans to England, where he was set to begin a ten-day music tour. Though shaken by the experience, Mitcham expressed gratitude for his safety in the wake of such a horrifying event.

“There’s some people lost their lives tonight, and, you know, I’m still here [sic],” he acknowledged. “So no matter what happens, I’m good, and the people on my flight are safe, and it could have been a whole lot worse for us. For those people, it was terrible.”