Has the MD-11 Completed Its Final Flight in the US?
The era of the MD-11 trijet is hanging by a thread following a tragic accident and a subsequent grounding order. After a UPS freighter disaster, concerns about safety have led authorities to rethink the future of this iconic aircraft in U.S. airspace.
Incident Overview
On November 4, a UPS MD-11 freighter experienced a catastrophic failure shortly after takeoff from Louisville’s Muhammad Ali International Airport. The aircraft lost its left engine and pylon, crashing into an industrial zone and claiming 14 lives.
FAA Grounding Directive
In the aftermath, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) swiftly issued an emergency directive grounding all MD-11 and MD-11F aircraft globally. The order was later extended to certain DC-10 models due to shared structural features in the engine pylon. Initially expected to be a temporary measure, the grounding has evolved into a more serious situation.
Inspection and Future Prospects
Boeing, the de facto manufacturer of the MD-11 following its merger with McDonnell-Douglas, indicated that returning the jets to service requires extensive inspections and repairs. According to reports, it is unlikely that the necessary inspection protocols will be established before 2026. This extended grounding will significantly impact air cargo operations, especially during peak seasons.
Impact on Cargo Airlines
Western Global Airlines is feeling the brunt of the grounding, with its entire fleet of 15 MD-11 freighters now immobilized. The airline has stated the situation is “devastating” and jeopardizes its survival, compelling it to furlough pilots. Meanwhile, major cargo carriers UPS and FedEx, collectively operating over 50 MD-11s, are adapting by increasing reliance on other aircraft types like Boeing 747s and 767s.
Implications for the Cargo Network
- UPS has grounded its MD-11 fleet, increasing its use of Boeing 747-8F and 767 freighters.
- FedEx is redeploying available aircraft and leasing additional capacity.
- Network planners are facing challenges maintaining service levels during the holiday rush.
The Aging Fleet
The MD-11’s production ended in 2000, leaving a small remaining fleet that is now approximately 30 years old. Estimates suggest around 70 MD-11s are still in service, primarily as freighters. The situation is equally dire for the DC-10, which has seen its operational roles diminish significantly over recent years.
The Future of Trijets in the U.S.
With the current grounding, aviation analysts suggest we may have seen the last operational flights of the MD-11 and DC-10 in the U.S. This uncertainty may lead operators to consider retiring their fleets sooner rather than later, especially if significant investment in repairs is needed for aging aircraft.
Conclusion
The MD-11 and DC-10 have long been symbols of innovation in cargo transport. However, the recent accident and subsequent FAA actions have led to a critical juncture for these aircraft types. It appears increasingly likely that this chapter of aviation history may soon come to a close, leaving operators and enthusiasts reflecting on the legacy of these unique trijets.
