Investigators Link Kentucky UPS Plane Crash That Killed 14 to Engine Mount Cracks
LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Federal investigators have released dramatic new details surrounding the UPS cargo plane crash in Kentucky that claimed 14 lives earlier this month. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) confirmed that cracks were found in the left wing’s engine mount of the MD-11 aircraft, raising serious concerns about maintenance schedules and inspection protocols.
The crash occurred on November 4, 2025, near Muhammad Ali International Airport in Louisville. According to the NTSB’s preliminary report, the plane managed to lift only 30 feet off the ground before disaster struck. A series of photos released Thursday show the rear of the engine detaching, flames erupting, and the wing engulfed in fire as the engine flew above the aircraft. Within seconds, the plane was unable to sustain flight.
Three UPS pilots on board were killed instantly, along with 11 people on the ground. All victims have since been identified, and the community continues to mourn the devastating loss. The investigation revealed that the aircraft, a 34-year-old MD-11, was not yet due for a detailed inspection of the fractured engine mount parts. It had last undergone examination in October 2021 and was scheduled for nearly 7,000 more takeoffs and landings before its next inspection. Aviation experts note that fatigue cracks are common in aging aircraft, but the tragedy underscores the need to reevaluate inspection intervals.
Former crash investigator Jeff Guzzetti remarked that while UPS was compliant with current maintenance requirements, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) may now reconsider whether those timelines are sufficient. Another expert, John Cox, explained that constant vibration inevitably leads to cracks in metal components, making inspection frequency critical. In response, all MD-11 aircraft operated by UPS, FedEx, and Western Global — along with related DC-10s — have been grounded pending inspection. UPS Airlines President Bill Moore stated the company is working closely with investigators to determine the cause and develop a plan for repairs and eventual fleet return, though he acknowledged the process will not be quick.
The crash has drawn comparisons to a 1979 American Airlines DC-10 disaster in Chicago that killed 273 people, also linked to engine mount failure. Experts warn that such attachment failures remain the Achilles’ heel of these aircraft.
Meanwhile, Louisville continues to grieve. The Louisville Orchestra offered a free concert to honor the victims, with Music Director Teddy Abrams noting, “Music brings comfort.”
RIP to the 14 lives lost in the UPS plane crash, November 4, 2025.
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