Aviation News – The FAA has expanded its temporary grounding order to include the DC-10 and MD-10 after investigators linked their engine-pylon design to the fatal UPS MD-11 crash in early November.
The decision, announced on 14 November 2025, follows the discovery that all three aircraft types share a similar pylon structure. The move affects a small number of remaining civil operators, as few DC-10 and MD-10 aircraft are still in active service worldwide. Authorities say the action is precautionary as the investigation into the 4 November UPS accident continues.
The FAA’s directive focuses on the engine-pylon assembly, which attaches each engine to the wing. Preliminary findings from the UPS crash indicate that the left engine separated during the take-off roll, causing the aircraft to lose control. Grounding the related fleet aims to prevent similar structural failures while inspectors conduct detailed examinations.