Aviation News – FedEx has resumed operations of its MD-11 cargo aircraft after the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) lifted a grounding order imposed following last year’s fatal UPS cargo plane crash in Kentucky. The decision marks a major step toward restoring full operational capacity for one of the world’s largest cargo carriers.
The grounding order was introduced after a deadly UPS cargo aircraft accident in Kentucky that claimed 15 lives, prompting a broad regulatory review of the aging MD-11 fleet. Following months of technical analysis, the FAA approved Boeing’s return-to-service protocol, which includes enhanced maintenance procedures and mandatory inspections designed to address safety concerns identified during the investigation.
The MD-11, a long-range tri-engine freighter widely used in global cargo networks, remains a critical asset in FedEx’s fleet. Returning the aircraft to service allows the company to restore long-haul cargo capacity, improve scheduling flexibility, and strengthen resilience across international freight routes during a period of sustained demand in air logistics.
