Louisville, Kentucky, November 18, 2025
The FAA has grounded all MD-11 aircraft nationwide after a tragic crash involving a UPS cargo plane in Louisville, resulting in 14 fatalities. This response aims to ensure thorough inspections and safety in air cargo operations. Both UPS and FedEx have voluntarily grounded their fleets of MD-11s as the NTSB investigates the cause of the incident, which occurred shortly after takeoff from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport, affecting cargo operations especially during the holiday season.
Louisville, Kentucky: FAA Grounds MD-11 Aircraft After Fatal UPS Crash
Louisville, Kentucky – In response to a tragic crash involving a UPS McDonnell Douglas MD-11 cargo plane, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has grounded all MD-11 aircraft nationwide pending thorough inspections. This decision follows the November 4, 2025, incident at UPS Worldport, which resulted in 14 fatalities, including three crew members and 11 individuals on the ground.
Details of the Crash
The UPS MD-11 aircraft, built in 1991, experienced a catastrophic failure shortly after takeoff from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport. The left engine detached during the takeoff roll, leading to a severe fire and the eventual crash of the aircraft into an industrial area. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is actively investigating the cause of the engine separation and the subsequent crash.
FAA’s Directive and Industry Response
Following the crash, the FAA issued an Emergency Airworthiness Directive (EAD) on November 8, 2025, grounding all MD-11 aircraft until they undergo comprehensive inspections and any necessary corrective actions are performed. The FAA stated that the condition observed in the crashed aircraft could result in a loss of continued safe flight and landing and is likely to exist or develop in other products of the same design. This directive affects approximately 70 MD-11 aircraft operated by UPS, FedEx, and Western Global Airlines.
Both UPS and FedEx have voluntarily grounded their MD-11 fleets out of an abundance of caution. UPS operates 27 MD-11s, while FedEx has 28 in its fleet. Boeing, which acquired McDonnell Douglas in 1997, has also recommended that operators suspend flight operations of the MD-11 Freighter until additional engineering analysis is performed.
Impact on Air Cargo Operations
The grounding of the MD-11 aircraft has significant implications for air cargo operations, especially during the peak holiday season. The MD-11s represent a substantial portion of the fleets for both UPS and FedEx, and their absence may lead to delays in deliveries and disruptions in supply chains. Both companies are implementing contingency plans to mitigate the impact on their services.
Background on the MD-11 Aircraft
The McDonnell Douglas MD-11 is a wide-body, three-engine jet airliner that was produced from 1990 to 2000. It was primarily used for long-haul flights and has been a workhorse for cargo operations. Despite its retirement from passenger service in 2014, many MD-11s remain in service as freighters, operated by various cargo airlines worldwide.
Ongoing Investigation
The NTSB is leading the investigation into the cause of the engine separation and the subsequent crash. Preliminary findings indicate that the aircraft reached an altitude of approximately 100 feet before the engine detached. The cockpit voice recorder revealed that a warning bell sounded shortly after takeoff, and the crew attempted to regain control before the crash. A preliminary report is expected within 30 days, and the NTSB continues to analyze all available data to determine the cause of the accident.
Conclusion
The grounding of the MD-11 aircraft by the FAA, UPS, and FedEx underscores the industry’s commitment to safety following the tragic crash in Louisville. While the investigation is ongoing, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of air cargo operations and preventing similar incidents in the future.
FAQ
What caused the UPS MD-11 crash in Louisville?
The exact cause is under investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). Preliminary findings indicate that the aircraft’s left engine detached shortly after takeoff, leading to a catastrophic fire and crash.
How many people were killed in the crash?
The crash resulted in 14 fatalities, including three crew members and 11 individuals on the ground.
What is the FAA’s response to the crash?
The FAA issued an Emergency Airworthiness Directive grounding all MD-11 aircraft nationwide until they undergo thorough inspections and any necessary corrective actions are performed.
Which airlines operate MD-11 aircraft?
Major operators include UPS, FedEx, and Western Global Airlines. UPS operates 27 MD-11s, and FedEx has 28 in its fleet.
What is the impact of grounding the MD-11 aircraft?
The grounding may lead to delays in deliveries and disruptions in supply chains, especially during the peak holiday season. Both UPS and FedEx are implementing contingency plans to mitigate the impact on their services.
Key Features of the MD-11 Aircraft
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Production Period | 1990 to 2000 |
| Primary Use | Long-haul flights and cargo operations |
| Retirement from Passenger Service | 2014 |
| Current Operators | UPS, FedEx, Western Global Airlines |
| Number of Aircraft Grounded | Approximately 70 |
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