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UPS Plane Involved in Crash Was 34 Years Old

UPS Plane Involved in Crash Was 34 Years Old
The UPS cargo jet that crashed shortly after takeoff from Louisville was a 34-year-old McDonnell Douglas MD-11, an aircraft age considered advanced for passenger planes but not uncommon within the air cargo sector. The plane, which had been grounded for over a month prior to the accident for critical fuel tank repairs, went down Tuesday evening, resulting in at least 12 fatalities, including a local shop cat named Bob. Authorities have indicated that the death toll may rise as investigations proceed.
Aircraft Age and Industry Context
While the MD-11’s age is notable, there is currently no evidence suggesting it directly contributed to the crash. The cause remains under investigation and is expected to require considerable time to determine. The incident has, however, highlighted the extended operational lifespan typical of cargo aircraft, which often remain in service far longer than passenger jets. This longevity is largely driven by economic considerations: older planes are generally retired due to fuel inefficiency rather than structural deterioration, and cargo jets typically accumulate about 30% fewer flight hours than their passenger counterparts.
The MD-11 is distinguished by its three-engine design, featuring a third engine embedded in the tail. This configuration was once favored for long-range reliability, particularly before advances in twin-engine technology made two-engine jets more viable for transoceanic flights. Despite its initial popularity, the MD-11’s relatively high fuel consumption has led many operators to phase out the model in favor of newer, more efficient aircraft.
Fleet Status and Historical Background
According to aviation analytics firm Cirium, UPS currently operates 25 MD-11s, with an additional six in storage. FedEx, also in the process of retiring its MD-11 fleet, maintains 38 in service and 34 in storage. Western Global Airlines operates four MD-11s and has 12 more in storage. The last commercial passenger flight of an MD-11 occurred in October 2014, marking the end of its era in passenger aviation.
The specific MD-11 involved in the Louisville crash was originally delivered to Thai Airlines in 1991, the inaugural year of the model’s service. It was sold to UPS and converted into a freighter in 2006, undergoing a comprehensive overhaul at that time. Such extensive refurbishments are standard practice in the cargo industry, where aircraft are often stripped down and rebuilt to extend their operational lifespan.
Investigation and Operational Impact
The crash has also drawn attention due to parallels with a 1979 American Airlines accident involving a jet with similar engines. Although investigators have not established any direct connection, this similarity is being examined as part of the broader inquiry.
In the immediate aftermath, the crash disrupted supply chains, causing temporary shipping delays. Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport has since reopened, but the effects on logistics and the ongoing investigation are expected to persist for some time.

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