UPS plane crashes after leaving Louisville airport, shelter-in-place issued: officials

A UPS plane crashed after taking off from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport in Kentucky, federal authorities said Tuesday.

Injuries are reported, according to the Louisville Metropolitan Police Department, which did not specify how many.

Three crew members were aboard the plane, according to UPS, which said it has not confirmed any injuries.

A shelter-in-place was issued 5 miles from the airport following the fire, police said.

“This is an active scene with fire and debris. Please stay clear,” the Louisville Metro Police Department said on social media.

UPS Flight 2976 crashed around 5:15 p.m. local time on Tuesday, according to the Federal Aviation Administration. The McDonnell Douglas MD-11 was headed to Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu, the agency said.

It appears there was an engine problem during takeoff, sources told ABC News.

UPS said it has been “notified of an incident/accident involving one of our aircraft” in Louisville.

The airport is home to UPS Worldport, the company Bulk package manipulation installation.

The FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board are investigating the accident.

According to the FAA, a large column of smoke could be seen near the airport, which is closed.

The airport confirmed that there was an “air incident” and that the airfield is closed.

“Kentucky, we are aware of a reported plane crash near Louisville International Airport,” Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear said on social media. “First responders are on scene and we will share more information as it becomes available. Please pray for the pilots, crew and everyone affected. We will share more soon.”

Beshear said Tuesday night that he is headed to Louisville.

“The situation is serious. Please pray for the affected families,” he said.

ABC News’ Luke Barr, Sam Sweeney and Ayesha Ali contributed to this report.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.