Aviation Crash Cases

UPS Flight 2976 Crash in Louisville: Information for Families and Neighbors

What the NTSB has reported about the November 4, 2025 UPS Flight 2976 crash at Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport, and the deadlines families and neighbors face.

Reviewed by Larry Forman, Attorney.

On November 4, 2025, UPS Flight 2976, an MD-11F cargo plane, crashed shortly after takeoff from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport. According to the NTSB, the 3 crew members and 11 people on the ground were killed, and 23 others on the ground were injured. Our thoughts are with the families and our Louisville neighbors. Kentucky’s one-year deadline for many injury claims from this crash falls around November 4, 2026. If you or your family were affected, call us now at 502-931-6788.

Key takeaways

  • The NTSB investigation is ongoing (accident number DCA26MA024). No probable cause has been issued.
  • The NTSB’s preliminary report says the left engine and pylon separated from the wing shortly after rotation.
  • Possible responsible parties in aviation cases can include the operator, manufacturers and maintenance providers.
  • Kentucky’s one-year deadline for many personal injury claims from the crash runs about November 4, 2026.
Airport cargo area at dusk with emergency lights in the distance after the UPS Flight 2976 crash

What the NTSB has reported

The NTSB’s preliminary report states that airport video showed the left (No. 1) engine and pylon separating from the wing shortly after the airplane rotated for takeoff, and that the airplane did not climb higher than about 30 feet above ground before striking a warehouse, a storage yard and other buildings. A January 14, 2026 investigative update described fatigue cracking found in the left pylon’s aft mount, and the NTSB held a public investigative hearing on May 19 and 20, 2026. The investigation is not finished, and the NTSB has not issued a final report or probable cause. Sources: NTSB investigation page and preliminary report.

Who may be responsible

Aviation cases can involve the airline operating the flight, the aircraft and engine manufacturers, and companies that maintained the aircraft. For people on the ground, property owners and others may also be involved. Federal law can also come into play. See our aviation crash lawyer page.

Deadlines: act now

Kentucky’s one-year deadline for many personal injury claims (KRS 413.140) means that, for injuries from the November 4, 2025 crash, the deadline for many claims runs about November 4, 2026. Wrongful death claims, property damage claims and other claims may have different deadlines, and some deadlines can depend on when an estate representative is appointed. Don’t wait to find out which deadline applies to you. Call 502-931-6788 now.

For workers, businesses and neighbors

People hurt at work on the ground may have workers’ compensation benefits and separate injury claims against others who were responsible. Nearby businesses and property owners whose buildings, vehicles, equipment or inventory were damaged may have property damage and business interruption losses; their own insurers are often the first stop, and those insurers may later seek repayment from responsible parties. Keep photos, repair estimates, invoices and records of lost income.

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Frequently asked questions about the UPS Flight 2976 crash

Has the cause of the crash been determined?

No. The NTSB has issued a preliminary report, an investigative update and held a public hearing, but has not issued a final report or probable cause.

How long do I have to file a claim?

For many personal injury claims, Kentucky’s one-year deadline runs about November 4, 2026. Wrongful death and other claims may have different deadlines. Call us now so we can review your dates.

Can families bring wrongful death claims?

Yes. In Kentucky, wrongful death claims are brought by the personal representative of the estate.

Affected by the Flight 2976 crash?

Deadlines are close. Call now. We’ll talk with your family confidentially.

Get a free case evaluation or call 502-931-6788.

This page is general information about Kentucky law as of October 2026, not legal advice. Every case is different.

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