FedEx’s MD-11s are gradually reentering service six months after a crash involving the type killed 15 people near Louisville, Kentucky.
The cargo airline operated an MD-11 test flight in and out of Memphis, Tennessee, on Saturday, followed by two commercial flights on Sunday. One aircraft flew from Memphis to Los Angeles, while the other departed Memphis for Miami.
The FAA recently approved a protocol developed by Boeing to reinforce a support structure on the MD-11’s engine pylons. FedEx implemented that fix for the aircraft that returned to service over the weekend, and plans to perform the same work on its remaining MD-11s, which are parked across the country.
In a statement, FedEx said it worked closely with regulators, Boeing, and its own experts to inspect and repair the airplanes.
UPS Flight 2976 crashed shortly after takeoff from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport on Nov. 4, 2025. The trijet slammed into an industrial area near the airport, killing all three crew and 12 people on the ground.
The NTSB found that the aircraft’s left engine and pylon separated from the wing during takeoff. Investigators identified metal fatigue in the pylon structure, but a final ruling on the accident’s cause could still be months away.
Numerous lawsuits have been filed in connection with the crash; several target UPS, Boeing – which took over production of the MD-11 following its acquisition of McDonnell Douglas – and GE, which built the engines used by the accident aircraft.
UPS retired its MD-11 fleet in January.
FedEx has said it will continue to operate the MD-11 until 2032, when the type will be replaced by newer, more efficient aircraft.
