Two US Cargo Carriers Ground All MD-11 Aircraft After Deadly Louisville Crash
FedEx and UPS, two major cargo carriers, have grounded their entire combined fleet of over 50 McDonnell Douglas MD-11 planes following a fatal crash in Louisville, Kentucky. This move could lead to significant disruptions, as both companies play a crucial role in transporting goods globally for major retailers like Amazon and various manufacturers.
Details of the Crash
The crash occurred late Tuesday when a UPS MD-11 caught fire seconds after taking off from Louisville's international airport. The incident claimed at least 14 lives. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
“The death toll from the crash, the cause of which is still under investigation, has risen to 14,” stated Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg on X.
Grounding Decision
Both UPS and FedEx issued statements explaining their decision to suspend MD-11 flights. FedEx operates 28 MD-11 aircraft, while UPS had 27 before the crash. The decision was made in collaboration with the aircraft manufacturer as a precautionary measure.
“We made this decision proactively at the recommendation of the aircraft manufacturer,” UPS said in its statement.
Boeing, which acquired the MD-11 program through its 1997 merger with McDonnell Douglas, recommended ceasing MD-11 cargo operations.
Fleet Impact
- FedEx operates 28 MD-11 cargo planes
- UPS operated 27 MD-11 cargo planes before the crash
- All such aircraft have now been grounded pending further notice
Summary
The grounding of MD-11 fleets by UPS and FedEx, advised by Boeing, aims to prioritize safety amid ongoing investigations into a deadly Louisville crash.
Author’s summary: FedEx and UPS grounded their MD-11 fleets after a fatal crash in Louisville, halting flights as Boeing recommends safety precautions during the ongoing investigation.