Who is Lee Truitt? Pilot killed in the Louisville UPS plane crash left a lasting legacy
By Vincent Rodriguez, Julian Paras
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LOUISVILLE (KOAT) — First Officer Lee Truitt was one of the crew members killed while operating the UPS Flight 2976 when it crashed and exploded in Louisville, Kentucky on November 4.
Truitt was a registered pilot rated to fly single-engine commercial planes and had a rating to fly multiengine transport planes. FAA records indicate that he was an airline transport pilot and was also a flight instructor.
KOAT’s Target 7 Investigative team found Truitt began working for UPS in 2021. He had been part of the aviation industry since 1998.
Truitt was rated to fly several types of planes, according to the FAA.
Truitt graduated from the University of New Mexico in 2006.
The NTSB continues to investigate the crash.
Dave McVinnie, who met Truitt while working at Bode Aviation Inc. in 2010, described him as “an exceptional person and an exceptional airman.”
McVinnie said he heard about it through Facebook on Thursday morning and was “shocked.”
The Truitt family sent KOAT this statement Thursday night: “We are grateful for the outpouring of love and support that has come forward from the community. Lee is a beloved father, husband, son, brother, friend, and pilot. As we process this tragedy, we ask that the public and press respect our privacy.”
President and CEO John H. Bode of Bode Aviation, Inc., released a statement on his impact within the company as an aviator.
“Lee was never simply a former employee—he was a cherished friend, a trusted colleague, and a model of what it means to be a true professional aviator. From his earliest days with our organization, Lee demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence, earning the respect and admiration of everyone he worked alongside.
“Through diligence, humility, and an unrelenting pursuit of mastery, Lee rose to serve as a Senior Flight Instructor and Charter Pilot, where his discipline, composure, and integrity became the standard by which others measured themselves. His dedication to his craft was matched only by his generosity of spirit—he continually returned to mentor our students and instructors, guiding the next generation of aviators with patience, wisdom, and care.
“It was always a genuine pleasure to see Lee walk through our doors, his presence a reminder of the very best qualities in our profession:, humility, professionalism, and quiet excellence.
“His loss has left a profound void, and many within our company—including myself—are deeply grieving this tragedy.
“We hope that everyone will keep Lee’s young family in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Though his passing has broken our hearts, the legacy of his kindness, mentorship, and dedication will endure. Lee Truitt will be missed beyond words—and he will forever remain a part of our family.”
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