After a thorough investigation into a tragic crash last November, the MD-11 cargo planes are back in the air. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has approved Boeing’s safety modifications, allowing FedEx to resume operations with this aircraft model.
The crash occurred shortly after takeoff from Louisville’s Muhammad Ali International Airport, resulting in the loss of three pilots and twelve individuals on the ground when an engine detached from the aircraft. Following this incident, the FAA grounded all MD-11s due to safety concerns.
Boeing has implemented a plan that includes replacing a critical spherical bearing and increasing inspections of the engine mounts. This decision comes after the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) identified previous failures of this part in other aircraft.
FedEx has expressed its commitment to safety, stating that it worked closely with Boeing and the FAA to ensure compliance with the new safety measures. The company operates 46 MD-11s, although it had already been storing several prior to the crash.
Despite the return to service, FedEx plans to phase out the MD-11s in favor of more efficient aircraft, a strategy that was in place before the crash.
Aviation safety experts have voiced their concerns and hopes regarding the safety of the MD-11 fleet. Some legal representatives for families affected by the crash are urging the FAA to ensure thorough oversight of the aircraft's return to service.
As the NTSB prepares for investigative hearings to further examine the crash, industry experts remain optimistic about the safety of the MD-11s following the corrective actions taken.
