FedEx is moving forward with its plan to resume MD-11 freighters, aiming to restore the operational capability of 28 MD-11s by the end of May.
Boeing has delivered the repair parts.
An internal FedEx announcement indicates that Boeing has completed the design analysis and repair plan for the rear bulkhead bearing of the MD-11 engine mounts, and the new bearing has passed validation testing. FedEx's engineering, maintenance, and quality control teams have confirmed the feasibility of Boeing's repair plan.
Last November, a UPS MD-11 cargo plane crashed after its left engine detached during takeoff in Louisville, Kentucky, prompting the FAA to ground MD-11s worldwide. An NTSB investigation found fatigue cracks in the structural connection between the engine and wing, a problem that had also occurred in other aircraft.
Two aircraft will fly this month, and full resumption will be carried out after FAA approval.
FedEx plans to begin operating two MD-11s in May, with pilots required to complete a three-day refresher course. However, full resumption of service still requires FAA approval for maintenance procedures.
It is worth noting that UPS announced the scrapping of all 27 of its MD-11 aircraft in January of this year. Another operator, Western Global Airlines, has not yet announced its plans.
Since its grounding last November, global air cargo capacity has been strained. If FedEx's 28 MD-11s can successfully resume service, it will significantly alleviate the pressure on international express delivery and air freight prices.
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