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UPS and FedEx Ground MD-11 Cargo Planes After Fatal Kentucky Crash
UPS and FedEx have temporarily grounded parts of their cargo fleets following a mid-takeoff crash in Louisville, Kentucky, that killed at least 14 people on Tuesday. The UPS-operated MD-11 aircraft veered off the runway, collided with nearby buildings, and ignited a massive fire that forced the closure of Louisville International Airport.
Crash Details and Immediate Aftermath
The UPS plane, a triple-engine MD-11F carrying 38,000 gallons (144,000 liters) of fuel, suffered a left-engine fire and detachment during takeoff, according to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). The resulting blaze destroyed several structures and prompted an ongoing search for additional victims in the wreckage.
Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg addressed the tragedy, stating,
"We pray for each of the victims' families and pray that no additional victims are lost."
Manufacturer's Recommendation Triggers Fleet Grounding
Boeing, which acquired the MD-11's original manufacturer McDonnell Douglas in 1997, advised both UPS and FedEx to suspend operations of the model. A Boeing spokesperson told Reuters the move was made "in an abundance of caution," with coordination ongoing with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
UPS, which operated 27 MD-11s before the crash, confirmed grounding 9% of its fleet, while FedEx halted its 28 MD-11 aircraft. Both companies emphasized safety as their top priority, with UPS noting contingency plans to minimize service disruptions.
MD-11 History and Operational Impact
The MD-11F, originally a passenger jet launched in 1991, transitioned to cargo use after passenger service ended in 2014. Production ceased in 2000. The crash's impact on global deliveries remains unclear, though UPS and FedEx-ranked among the world's largest cargo carriers-face potential logistical challenges.
Investigation Underway
Officials have yet to determine the crash's cause. The NTSB's preliminary findings point to the engine fire as a critical factor, while Boeing and the FAA continue collaborative reviews. Updates are expected as the investigation progresses.
