Major Logistics Companies Ground MD-11 Fleets
The world’s largest cargo carriers, UPS and FedEx, have grounded their fleets of McDonnell Douglas MD-11 freighter aircraft following a tragic crash. The decision came at the recommendation of Boeing, the manufacturer of the aircraft.
US logistics companies UPS and FedEx have temporarily suspended operations of more than 50 MD-11 cargo planes. This move was announced on Friday evening, after a fatal crash involving one of the planes occurred at Louisville International Airport in Kentucky earlier that week, resulting in at least 14 deaths.
UPS stated in a public statement: “Out of an abundance of caution and in the interest of safety, we have made the decision to temporarily ground our MD-11 fleet.” The grounding took effect immediately, with the company citing proactive measures based on recommendations from the aircraft’s manufacturer.
Boeing, which acquired the MD-11 program through its 1997 merger with McDonnell Douglas, also advised UPS and FedEx to suspend MD-11 freighter flights. A spokesperson for Boeing said, “This recommendation was made in an abundance of caution, and we will continue coordinating with the FAA on this matter.”
Details of the MD-11 Crash
The US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is conducting an investigation into the crash. Preliminary findings indicate that the accident occurred when one of the engines caught fire and detached from the plane during takeoff. The aircraft reached an altitude of approximately 100 feet (30.5 meters) before crashing off the runway in flames, destroying two nearby businesses.
On Friday, US safety investigators reported that the three UPS pilots attempted to regain control of the aircraft just before it crashed after a warning bell sounded in the cockpit. The NTSB noted that the plane was built in 1991 and later converted into a cargo aircraft. A preliminary report on the investigation is expected within about 30 days.
Overview of MD-11 Operations
The MD-11 was initially developed and produced by McDonnell Douglas Corporation, which merged with Boeing in 1997. Production of the MD-11 ceased in 2000, and its use for passenger service ended officially in 2014.
UPS and FedEx are the leading cargo carriers globally. Prior to the crash, UPS had 27 MD-11s in its fleet, according to a company fact sheet. The company mentioned that these aircraft make up only about 9% of its overall fleet. FedEx, which operates a fleet of 700 aircraft, has 28 MD-11s in its fleet. The company stated it is “immediately implementing contingency plans” to avoid disruptions in service.
Impact of the Grounding
The grounding of the MD-11 fleets could lead to significant disruptions, as both UPS and FedEx transport goods for major retailers such as Amazon, Walmart, and Target, as well as manufacturers and businesses worldwide.
