The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued an order to halt MD-11 aircraft operations for inspection following a fatal UPS cargo plane crash in Louisville, Ky., that claimed the lives of at least 14 individuals. UPS and FedEx have grounded their combined fleet of over 50 McDonnell Douglas MD-11 cargo planes, adhering to Boeing’s recommendation.
The FAA’s urgent airworthiness directive was prompted by the recent crash, where the left engine and pylon separated from the plane during takeoff. The cause of this detachment is currently under investigation. According to the FAA, this issue could lead to unsafe flight conditions and landings.
UPS confirmed compliance with the directive by grounding its 26 MD-11 planes, constituting approximately nine percent of its fleet. Boeing has expressed support for the FAA’s directive, having acquired the MD-11 program in 1997 through the McDonnell Douglas merger.
Authorities anticipate that the FAA will demand thorough engine and pylon inspections before allowing the planes to resume operations. The U.S. National Transportation Safety Board is overseeing the investigation into the crash of the 34-year-old MD-11 freighter at the airport, which occurred during takeoff for Honolulu from UPS’s aviation hub in Louisville.
Witnesses describe the crash as a catastrophic event, with video footage showing the left engine detaching during takeoff. Despite the fire and subsequent crash, the plane managed to clear the runway fence before impact. The intense blaze engulfed the aircraft and spread to neighboring establishments.
Recent findings suggest that the UPS pilots made efforts to regain control of the plane just before the crash. The investigation into the incident continues, with safety measures being closely monitored.
