FedEx Restarts MD-11 Cargo Flights After FAA Clears Aircraft

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration has lifted its grounding order on the MD‑11 freighter after approving Boeing's design fix for a critical engine‑pylon bearing. FedEx completed the required inspections and repairs on at least two MD‑11Fs and began commercial cargo operations again from May 10, with test flights departing Memphis and routes to Miami and Los Angeles.

The clearance follows the November 2025 UPS MD‑11 crash near Louisville, Kentucky, which killed all three crew members and 12 people on the ground. UPS retired its MD‑11 fleet, while FedEx, which stores about 29 of the type, had estimated the grounding could cost up to US$175 million. Boeing’s fix replaces a spherical bearing and adds heightened inspection regimes. FedEx said “Safety is our highest priority,” as it works toward returning its MD‑11 fleet, which makes up roughly 4 % of its cargo aircraft, to regular service. The National Transportation Safety Board will hold investigative hearings on May 19‑20.