Overview
• Operator: UPS (United Parcel Service)
• Aircraft Model: Boeing 747-8F
• Registration: N612UP
• Flight Number: 5X-752
• Route: Louisville (SDF) to Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW)
• Date: 18 February 2025
• Occupants: 3 crew members
• Casualties: None reported
• Nature of Incident: Aft cargo fire indication and smell of smoke on board
Incident Summary
A UPS Boeing 747-8F, operating as flight 5X-752, departed Louisville International Airport (SDF) runway 35L, bound for Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) when, at approximately 3,000 feet AGL, the crew received an aft cargo fire warning. Declaring Mayday, the crew stopped the climb at 4,000 feet and requested an immediate return to Louisville.
The crew also reported a burning odour inside the aircraft, reinforcing concerns of a possible cargo fire. They conducted a left-hand circuit and safely landed back on runway 35L approximately 15 minutes after departure.
Following touchdown, the aircraft vacated the runway onto a parallel taxiway, where emergency services conducted an external inspection. After confirming no visible fire or smoke, the aircraft taxied to the apron for further assessment.
The aircraft remained out of service for approximately 37 hours before resuming operations.
Sequence of Events
Pre-incident Conditions:
• Routine departure from Louisville International Airport runway 35L.
• No prior technical issues reported before takeoff.
In-flight Occurrence:
• At 3,000 feet AGL, the crew received an aft cargo fire indication.
• Declared Mayday and stopped climb at 4,000 feet.
• Crew additionally reported a smell of smoke in the cockpit.
• Requested an immediate return to runway 35L.
Landing & Emergency Response:
• The aircraft landed safely on runway 35L within 15 minutes of departure.
• Emergency services inspected the aircraft on the taxiway.
• No visible fire, smoke, or excessive heat was detected externally.
• The aircraft subsequently taxied to the apron for further examination.
Investigation & Initial Findings
• No evidence of actual fire was found, suggesting a possible sensor malfunction or residual fumes.
• Cargo fire warning systems and detectors will be examined for faults.
• The aircraft remained on the ground for approximately 37 hours for safety checks before being cleared to return to service.
Analysis & Safety Recommendations
• Cargo fire warnings are critical safety events, requiring immediate crew action.
• The presence of a burning odour alongside a fire warning adds to the severity of the situation.
• The cargo fire detection system should be thoroughly inspected to rule out false alarms.
• The incident highlights the importance of rapid response and crew decision-making in smoke/fire-related emergencies.
• Additional sensor diagnostics may be needed to prevent unnecessary diversions and disruptions in the future.
Disclaimer
“This report is based on available information as of 20 February 2025. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the completeness of the details cannot be guaranteed. If you are the rightful owner of any referenced materials and wish them removed, please email takedown@cockpitking.com.”
