Louisville, KY — A heartbreaking and chaotic scene unfolded late this evening at Muhammad Ali International Airport after a UPS cargo aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff, prompting an immediate shutdown of the airport and a large-scale emergency response.
The aircraft, which was reportedly en route to Honolulu, had an estimated 12 hours of fuel onboard at the time of the incident. According to early reports, the plane experienced significant engine trouble moments after lifting off. Within minutes, it went down, sending emergency crews rushing to the area as smoke filled the night sky.
As of this time, officials have not released information regarding casualties or survivors. UPS leadership and airport authorities have stated that updates will be shared as soon as next-of-kin notifications and formal assessments are completed.
Louisville Metro Police, fire crews, airport emergency teams, and federal aviation investigators are all on scene. The airport remains closed as responders continue to secure the area, manage fire suppression, and begin the early stages of investigative review.
Community members, many of whom live close enough to have heard the impact or seen emergency vehicles converging on the airport corridor, have taken to social media to share prayers, grief, and shock.
“This is devastating. We’re heartbroken for everyone involved — the families, the UPS community, and our city,” one Louisville resident wrote.
The UPS Worldport facility in Louisville — one of the largest air logistics hubs in the world — employs thousands of workers and plays a major role in the daily operations of the airport. Tonight, those workers are waiting, hoping, and bracing for news no one ever wishes to hear.
Local leaders and community members are urging the public to keep those affected in their thoughts as the situation continues to unfold.
“Please keep the city of Louisville, the UPS team, and all those affected in your prayers,” one community statement read. “Our hearts are with our neighbors.”
This remains a developing story. Further updates will be provided as officials release additional information.
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