Federal investigators have unveiled alarming photographs depicting an engine detachment from a fateful UPS cargo plane that crashed in Kentucky two weeks ago, leading to the loss of 14 lives. The images expose signs of fractures in the engine mount on the left wing.
A series of six pictures illustrate the engine’s rear beginning to separate, escalating over the wing in flames. Subsequent images capture the wing engulfed in fire as the burning engine soars above it.
The last photo reveals the aircraft starting to lift off but only manages to ascend 30 feet (9.1 meters) before crashing, as per the National Transportation Safety Board’s preliminary report on the November 4 incident in Louisville, Kentucky, based on data from the flight recorder.
The tragedy claimed the lives of three pilots on board and an additional 11 individuals near Muhammad Ali International Airport.
The NTSB stated that the plane was not yet scheduled for a detailed examination of critical engine mount parts with fractures, requiring nearly 7,000 more takeoffs and landings. Its last inspection was in October 2021.
Following the report’s release, former federal crash investigator Jeff Guzzetti suggested that while UPS seemed to be adhering to maintenance timelines, the FAA might reassess the adequacy of these intervals.
The timing and detection of the cracks on the 34-year-old plane remain uncertain. Aviation expert John Cox described fatigue cracks as normal wear and tear on aircraft, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and maintenance for vibrating metal parts like engine mounts.
The NTSB report disclosed new details, including the cockpit voice recorder capturing an alarm bell 37 seconds after the UPS crew initiated takeoff thrust.
Regarding the crash, Sean Garber, whose salvage yard was affected, labeled it a human error tragedy based on the report findings.
All MD-11 aircraft used by UPS, FedEx, and Western Global, in addition to some DC-10s, were grounded post-incident for inspection and repairs, with the FAA yet to specify requirements.
Cox highlighted the imminent tough decisions for carriers as they planned retiring these planes soon, potentially incurring significant costs if engine removal and inspection are necessary.
UPS Airlines President Bill Moore recently stated that the company is collaborating with investigators to pinpoint the crash’s main cause.
UPS and FedEx have mentioned that MD-11 planes constitute about 9% and 4% of their fleets, respectively.