UPS cargo jet crashes after takeoff from Louisville airport

A UPS cargo plane crashed shortly after takeoff from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport on Tuesday evening, igniting large fires, producing a towering plume of smoke visible for miles and prompting a shelter-in-place order for residents within five miles of the airport. The Federal Aviation Administration said the aircraft went down at about 5:15 p.m. local time while departing for Honolulu. The crash occurred near the intersection of Fern Valley Road and Grade Lane on the southern edge of the airfield.

Louisville Metro Police Department said multiple agencies were responding to the scene and reported injuries but did not release a tally or the condition of those hurt. Police described the area as "an active scene with fire and debris. Stay away," and warned people to avoid the site while emergency crews work. A public safety alert directed residents within five miles to remain indoors until further notice, and the airport closed its runways and halted operations.

UPS confirmed the aircraft involved belonged to the company. Early reports and tracking data indicated the flight was bound for Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu. The FAA said it is...