An aircraft that crashed in flames in Kentucky in November had a structural flaw that had been identified by Boeing on similar planes 15 years ago, according to investigators. The MD-11F freighter operated by UPS crashed after one of its engines separated from the wing as it was preparing to take off from Louisville. The plane briefly lifted off from the runway before hurtling out of control into an industrial area, resulting in 15 deaths, including three crew and 12 on the ground.
In an update report, the US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) revealed that cracks found in the engine mounting assembly had previously occurred on several other aircraft. At the time, Boeing concluded that the issue would not result in a safety of flight condition.
The MD-11 is a relatively older design originally produced by McDonnell Douglas, absorbed by Boeing in 1997. The last MD-11 was produced in 2001, but Boeing has continued to provide parts and support.
The NTSB's preliminary report drew attention to cracks in the engine attachment mechanism. This latest update describes fractures due to fatigue in a critical bearing. Boeing had previously documented failures of the same part affecting three different aircraft and sent a service letter warning operators about the findings in 2011, recommending inspections every five years.
Tim Atkinson, a former air accident investigator, criticized Boeing's determination that a failure of this part would not have safety consequences, describing it as extraordinary. Boeing’s internal processes have faced scrutiny following other incidents in recent years, including the 737 Max tragedies.
In a statement, Boeing extended condolences to the families affected and reiterated its support for the NTSB investigation, which continues and is expected to take time before releasing a final report.
In an update report, the US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) revealed that cracks found in the engine mounting assembly had previously occurred on several other aircraft. At the time, Boeing concluded that the issue would not result in a safety of flight condition.
The MD-11 is a relatively older design originally produced by McDonnell Douglas, absorbed by Boeing in 1997. The last MD-11 was produced in 2001, but Boeing has continued to provide parts and support.
The NTSB's preliminary report drew attention to cracks in the engine attachment mechanism. This latest update describes fractures due to fatigue in a critical bearing. Boeing had previously documented failures of the same part affecting three different aircraft and sent a service letter warning operators about the findings in 2011, recommending inspections every five years.
Tim Atkinson, a former air accident investigator, criticized Boeing's determination that a failure of this part would not have safety consequences, describing it as extraordinary. Boeing’s internal processes have faced scrutiny following other incidents in recent years, including the 737 Max tragedies.
In a statement, Boeing extended condolences to the families affected and reiterated its support for the NTSB investigation, which continues and is expected to take time before releasing a final report.
