UPS and FedEx Ground Temporarily Ground MD-11 Fleets Following Fatal Crash in Kentucky

November 8, 2025 – Louisville, Kentucky: In the wake of a tragic plane crash that claimed multiple lives near Louisville, Kentucky, both UPS and FedEx have announced the immediate grounding of their MD-11 aircraft fleets. The decision comes as investigators work to determine the cause of the accident that occurred earlier this week, intensifying concerns about the safety of one of the cargo aviation industry’s most utilized aircraft models.

Details of the Tragic Crash

On November 5, 2025, a UPS-operated MD-11 cargo jet crashed shortly after takeoff from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport. The incident resulted in the deaths of all crew members aboard and prompted emergency response teams to rush to the scene. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) launched an immediate investigation to uncover the root causes.

The MD-11, a tri-jet aircraft originally introduced by McDonnell Douglas in the 1990s, has been a mainstay for cargo operations due to its range and payload capabilities. However, it has also been the subject of scrutiny due to a higher-than-average accident rate compared to other aircraft types.

Industry Giants Respond Swiftly

Following the crash, UPS and FedEx, the two largest package delivery companies in the United States and major operators of MD-11 aircraft, took the unusual step of grounding their fleets as a precaution. Both companies expressed their commitment to safety and cooperation with federal investigators.

UPS CEO Carol Tomé stated, “The tragic losses deeply affect our entire UPS family, and our primary focus is to support the families of those impacted while working closely with the NTSB to understand what happened. The temporary grounding of our MD-11 aircraft is a precautionary measure to ensure safety remains our top priority.”

FedEx also released a statement confirming that all MD-11s in their fleet are grounded until more information is available. The company emphasized that the safety of its employees and the communities it serves is paramount.

Safety Concerns Surrounding the MD-11 Aircraft

The MD-11 has a complex history regarding safety, particularly in cargo operations. Its unique design includes advanced avionics and a third engine at the tail, which provides added power but also introduces specific handling challenges. Experts note that the aircraft’s landing and handling characteristics require skilled pilots, especially under adverse weather or unusual flight conditions.

Historically, the MD-11 has been involved in a disproportionate number of accidents compared to other large cargo jets, leading to heightened vigilance by operators. Some industry analysts speculate the recent grounding may accelerate plans to retire the MD-11 from service in favor of newer, more fuel-efficient, and technologically advanced aircraft.

Impact on Cargo Operations and Logistics

The temporary removal of the MD-11 fleets from service by UPS and FedEx is expected to have ripple effects on the logistics and shipping industry, particularly during the critical pre-holiday shipping period. Both companies have indicated they are adjusting their networks to compensate with other aircraft types and increased use of ground transportation.

Logistics experts suggest that while there may be some initial delays, UPS and FedEx’s extensive resources and experience managing complex supply chains should mitigate the overall impact on package deliveries.

Looking Ahead: Investigation and Industry Implications

The NTSB investigation will focus on multiple potential factors including mechanical failure, pilot error, and environmental conditions. It is expected to take several months before a comprehensive report is issued.

Meanwhile, industry watchers are closely monitoring the situation, with some speculating that this incident may heighten regulatory scrutiny on older cargo aircraft and accelerate modernization efforts within the fleets of major carriers.

As the aviation and logistics industries await further information, the grounding of the MD-11 fleets by UPS and FedEx underscores the paramount importance of safety and the high stakes involved in air cargo operations.

Summary

• UPS and FedEx have grounded their MD-11 cargo aircraft after a deadly crash in Kentucky on November 5.
• The crash involved a UPS MD-11 jet near Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport.
• Both companies emphasized safety and cooperation with NTSB investigators.
• The MD-11 has a complex safety record, prompting cautious operational decisions by carriers.
• Shipping operations may experience some disruptions, especially during the busy holiday season.

Authorities and industry leaders continue to prioritize investigating the causes of the crash and ensuring that cargo air travel remains safe and reliable for both workers and consumers.