UPS Plane Crash: Did the Louisville Mayor Misstate the MD-11 Cargo Jet’s Fuel Capacity?

A UPS cargo jet crashed shortly after takeoff from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport on November 4, 2025, leading to a massive fire and significant public concern. The incident gained added attention when Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg stated that the MD-11 freighter was carrying an unusually high amount of fuel — a claim that experts quickly disputed.

The crash occurred around 5:15 p.m. local time as the aircraft was departing for Honolulu. Three crew members were aboard when the plane went down near the airport perimeter, sending thick smoke into the sky and triggering a large emergency response. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have since launched an investigation into the cause.

Officials and Experts Differ on UPS Plane Crash Details

In a post following the crash, Mayor Greenberg claimed that the UPS jet was carrying an exceptionally large fuel load. However, aviation analysts and aircraft engineers pointed out that the McDonnell Douglas MD-11 — the model involved in the accident — cannot physically hold the amount mentioned in his statement.

The MD-11F has a maximum fuel capacity of approximately 36,000 to 38,000 gallons, which equates to about 258,000 pounds of fuel. Experts believe the mayor’s post may have accidentally listed the figure in gallons instead of pounds, leading to confusion. The misstatement caused a wave of discussion among residents and aviation followers online.

While the mayor’s intention was to emphasize the seriousness of the crash and the fire hazard, the numerical inaccuracy quickly drew attention. Aviation experts noted that overreporting the fuel load by such a margin could create unnecessary panic or mislead emergency management responses.

UPS later confirmed that emergency crews from the company were coordinating with local authorities and federal investigators. The company expressed its condolences to those affected and pledged full cooperation with the NTSB inquiry. Preliminary data from the FAA suggests that the fire was contained within hours, though damage assessments are still ongoing.

Public Reactions and Broader Implications

The mayor’s statement has sparked debate about the importance of factual accuracy in official communications during crises. In aviation incidents, details such as fuel capacity and load directly affect how firefighters, hazmat teams, and emergency responders act on the scene.

Experts from the aviation community explained that accurate data helps determine the size of the exclusion zone, the expected fire intensity, and the volume of suppressant required. Incorrect figures can lead to either underestimating or overestimating the risks involved.

Residents living near the Louisville airport also expressed frustration over inconsistent information released during the initial hours after the crash. The city has promised more transparent communication in future briefings. Meanwhile, investigators will analyze flight recorder data to confirm the exact amount of fuel loaded before takeoff.

In summary, the UPS plane crash in Louisville has highlighted the crucial need for accuracy in crisis reporting. The confusion over the MD-11’s fuel capacity serves as a reminder that small errors in official statements can spread quickly, impacting public perception and response coordination.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What caused the UPS cargo plane to crash?

The cause has not been officially confirmed. The NTSB is investigating possible mechanical issues or takeoff-related complications.

Q2: How much fuel can an MD-11 cargo jet hold?

The MD-11’s maximum fuel capacity is about 36,000 to 38,000 gallons, depending on configuration and flight range requirements.

Q3: Why was the mayor’s statement controversial?

The mayor’s reported figure for the plane’s fuel load appeared far higher than the aircraft’s real capacity, likely due to a unit error.

Q4: What agencies are investigating the UPS crash?

The National Transportation Safety Board and the Federal Aviation Administration are leading the investigation with assistance from UPS.

Q5: How many people were on board the UPS cargo jet?

Three crew members were on board the MD-11 freighter at the time of the crash, according to official statements.

References

Reuters. (2025). UPS cargo plane crashes in Kentucky, erupts into fire. November 4, 2025.

Associated Press. (2025). UPS cargo jet crashes near Louisville airport; officials confirm multiple injuries. November 4, 2025.

Hindustan Times. (2025). UPS plane crash: What is MD-11 cargo jet’s fuel capacity? Louisville mayor’s post sparks row. November 5, 2025.