UPS, FedEx Both Step Back With the Fatal Accident’s Cause Unknown

Cargo airlines have grounded their fleets of McDonnell Douglas MD-11 cargo aircraft after a UPS jet crashed shortly after takeoff in Louisville, Kentucky, killing at least 14 people. The move follows recommendations from Boeing and the Federal Aviation Administration as investigators work to determine the cause of the accident.

"We have made the decision to temporarily ground our MD-11 fleet," UPS said, adding that “contingency plans are in place to ensure we can continue to deliver the reliable service our customers around the world count on." MD-11s make up around nine percent of the carrier’s fleet.

FedEx quickly followed suit, announcing that it too would ground its 28 MD-11s, making up around four percent of its 700-aircraft fleet, while conducting a “thorough inspection and safety review.” The company said it is using its broader network to minimize shipping disruptions.

The crash involved a UPS MD-11 departing Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF) for Honolulu. The aircraft made it just a few feet off the ground before striking an industrial area near and igniting a fire. Officials confirmed the deaths of all three crew members and at least eleven people on the ground.

The National Transportation Safety Board is leading the investigation, assisted by the FAA and Boeing engineers. While the cause remains undetermined, the FAA issued an airworthiness directive (AD) to Boeing for all MD-11 and MD-11F aircraft, prohibiting further flight until inspections and “all applicable corrective actions” are completed.

The specific concern was the left engine and pylon. These parts were quickly found to have been left behind when the MD-11 involved in the accident went airborne, and the FAA “has determined the unsafe condition is likely to exist or develop in other products of the same type design."

FMI: www.ups.com