Jamie R. Lebovitz, senior partner at Nurenberg Paris Injury Lawyers and lead counsel in numerous aviation cases over the past 40 years, extends his deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and to those injured in the tragic crash of a UPS cargo plane.
The Tragic Event
On November 5, 2025, at around 5:20 p.m., UPS Flight 2976, a McDonnell Douglas MD-11F cargo aircraft bound for Honolulu, Hawaii, crashed during takeoff from Muhammad Ali International Airport in Louisville, Kentucky.
All three crew members on board and several people on the ground were killed. At least eleven others were injured, including two in critical condition. Sadly, officials have reported that some individuals remain missing, and the death toll may rise.
What Happened During Takeoff
Witnesses and video recordings captured the aircraft’s left wing catching fire as the plane began to lift off. Additional footage showed that one of the plane’s engines—believed to be the left engine—had separated from the aircraft and landed near the runway.
Early evidence suggests that the engine may have detached during takeoff, causing the pilots to lose control almost immediately. The plane then crashed into an industrial area south of the airport, scattering debris across a wide area.
Background on the Aircraft
The MD-11 involved in the crash was built in 1991 and originally operated by Thai Airways as a passenger plane. In 2006, it was converted into a cargo aircraft and later entered service with UPS.
The plane was powered by General Electric (GE) engines, according to FAA records. The MD-11 model has a history of safety issues, with more than 50 recorded incidents resulting in over 240 fatalities. Notably, a similar crash occurred in 1979 involving an American Airlines DC-10—the MD-11’s predecessor—when the left engine separated from the wing during takeoff at Chicago O’Hare International Airport, leading to a catastrophic loss of control.
The Ongoing Investigation
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is leading the investigation, joined by experts from Boeing, the FAA, and other agencies. They will work to determine what caused the engine separation and whether mechanical, structural, or maintenance issues played a role.
Support for Victims and Families
Mr. Lebovitz and his team have begun working with a group of aviation experts who have previously assisted the firm in aircraft accident investigations and legal actions on behalf of victims and their families.
“Our hearts go out to everyone affected by this terrible tragedy,” said Mr. Lebovitz. “We are committed to uncovering the truth and helping families seek justice and closure.”
