UPS Retires MD-11 Cargo Planes After Deadly Kentucky Crash

The shipping giant is retiring its fleet of McDonnell Douglas MD-11 aircraft following a deadly accident in Louisville.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 2:55pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

UPS has announced that it is retiring its entire fleet of McDonnell Douglas MD-11 cargo planes, just months after one of the aircraft crashed during takeoff in Louisville, Kentucky, resulting in 15 fatalities. CEO Carol Tome expressed pride in the UPS team's response to the accident, but the company has decided to phase out the MD-11 model from its operations.

Why it matters

The MD-11 has been a workhorse cargo plane for UPS, but the deadly crash in Louisville has raised concerns about the aircraft's safety and reliability. UPS's decision to retire the fleet signals a shift in the company's priorities towards newer, potentially safer aircraft models.

The details

The MD-11 crash occurred in Louisville, where UPS operates a major air cargo hub known as Worldport. The accident resulted in the deaths of 15 people, prompting a thorough investigation and review of the company's operations and fleet. UPS CEO Carol Tome praised the response of the Worldport team in the aftermath of the tragedy.

  • The MD-11 crash occurred in Louisville in late 2025.
  • UPS announced the retirement of its MD-11 fleet on January 27, 2026.

The players

UPS

United Parcel Service, a major global shipping and logistics company.

Carol Tome

The CEO of UPS, who expressed pride in the company's response to the deadly MD-11 crash in Louisville.

Worldport

UPS's major air cargo hub located in Louisville, Kentucky.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I am incredibly proud of our team at Worldport and how they responded to this accident.”

— Carol Tome, CEO (wn.com)

The takeaway

UPS's decision to retire its fleet of MD-11 cargo planes following a deadly crash in Louisville underscores the company's commitment to safety and reliability, even if it means phasing out a long-serving aircraft model. This move reflects the shipping industry's ongoing efforts to prioritize the well-being of its workforce and the communities it serves.