Louisville, Kentucky, November 28, 2025
A tragic crash involving a UPS MD-11 cargo plane in Louisville has led to the grounding of all MD-11 aircraft by the FAA. The incident, which resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries, raises concerns about UPS’s holiday delivery commitments. The NTSB is currently investigating the cause of the crash, which preliminary findings attribute to metal fatigue in the aircraft’s engine. The impact on logistics is significant, amid plans by UPS to lease new aircraft to maintain service.
Louisville, Kentucky: UPS MD-11 Fleet Grounded After Fatal Crash
Louisville, Kentucky – Following a tragic crash of a UPS McDonnell Douglas MD-11 cargo plane on November 4, 2025, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has grounded all MD-11 aircraft, including those operated by UPS. This grounding is expected to last several months, potentially impacting the peak holiday delivery season.
Details of the Crash
The incident occurred shortly after takeoff from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport. The left engine detached from the aircraft, leading to a fiery crash that resulted in the deaths of all three crew members and at least 11 individuals on the ground. Additionally, 23 people sustained injuries, with two reported as serious and 21 as minor.
Investigation and Grounding
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating the cause of the crash. Preliminary findings indicate that metal fatigue led to cracks in the engine’s pylon attachment points. As a result, the FAA has grounded all MD-11 aircraft, including those operated by UPS, pending further inspections and potential repairs. This grounding is expected to last several months, potentially impacting the peak holiday delivery season.
Impact on UPS Operations
UPS has stated that it will implement contingency plans to ensure delivery commitments are met during the holiday season. The company is leasing additional aircraft and adjusting its logistics to accommodate the absence of the MD-11 fleet. Despite these efforts, the extended grounding may lead to delays in package deliveries.
Background on the MD-11 Fleet
The MD-11, introduced in 1984, has been a workhorse for cargo operations. However, many carriers have retired the aircraft in favor of newer, more efficient models. The recent grounding raises questions about the future of the remaining MD-11s, especially if repairs are deemed too costly.
Conclusion
The grounding of the MD-11 fleet presents significant challenges for UPS and the broader logistics industry during the critical holiday season. While UPS is taking steps to mitigate the impact, customers may experience delays in package deliveries. The NTSB’s ongoing investigation will provide further insights into the cause of the crash and the future of the MD-11 aircraft.
FAQ
What caused the UPS MD-11 plane crash in Louisville?
The crash was caused by the left engine detaching during takeoff, leading to a fiery crash that resulted in the deaths of all three crew members and at least 11 individuals on the ground. Additionally, 23 people sustained injuries, with two reported as serious and 21 as minor.
How long will the MD-11 fleet remain grounded?
The grounding is expected to last several months, potentially impacting the peak holiday delivery season.
How is UPS addressing the impact of the grounding?
UPS is implementing contingency plans, including leasing additional aircraft and adjusting logistics, to ensure delivery commitments are met during the holiday season. Despite these efforts, delays in package deliveries may occur.
What is the future of the MD-11 aircraft?
The future of the MD-11 fleet is uncertain. The recent grounding raises questions about the viability of the remaining MD-11s, especially if repairs are deemed too costly. Many carriers have already retired the aircraft in favor of newer, more efficient models.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Date | November 4, 2025 |
| Aircraft Involved | McDonnell Douglas MD-11 |
| Location | Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport, Louisville, Kentucky |
| Casualties | 14 fatalities (3 crew members, 11 on the ground); 23 injuries (2 serious, 21 minor) |
| Investigation | National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) |
| FAA Action | Grounding of all MD-11 aircraft |
| UPS Response | Leasing additional aircraft; adjusting logistics to mitigate delivery delays |
| MD-11 Fleet Status | Uncertain future; potential retirement if repairs are too costly |
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