In brief
A recent UPS cargo plane crash in Kentucky has resulted in wrongful death lawsuits, with claims that the airline prioritized profits over safety. The MD-11 jet, which had received repairs shortly before the crash, had been grounded due to structural concerns. The incident, which took place during takeoff, resulted in the deaths of three pilots and 11 people on the ground. Legal actions are expected to unfold, as federal officials investigate the airline's maintenance practices for older aircraft.
A deadly UPS cargo plane crash in Kentucky stemmed from corporate choices that favored profits over safety, according to lawyers filing two wrongful death lawsuits alleging the company kept flying older aircraft without increasing maintenance beyond standard schedules.
Last month's fiery crash of the MD-11 jet occurred during takeoff when the left-wing engine detached. The National Transportation Safety Board reported cracks were found where the engine connected to the wing.
Lawyer Robert Clifford, with over 45 years in aviation law, asserted that the now-grounded MD-11s, which average over 30 years in service, are unsafe for package delivery. “The plane that crashed was old, tired, and should have never been taken out of mothballs,” he stated, condemning the decision to prioritize profits over safety.
In response, UPS and GE, the engine manufacturer also targeted in the lawsuits, stated that safety is their priority as they assist federal investigations, expressing condolences to victims' families without commenting on ongoing litigation.
The crash killed 3 pilots and 11 people on the ground
The lawsuits were filed by Clifford Law Offices and Sam Aguiar Injury Lawyers on behalf of the families of individuals killed in the crash, including Angela Anderson, 45, and Trinadette “Trina” Chavez, 37. The crash resulted in the tragic loss of three pilots and 11 people on the ground.
Legal challenges are expected to escalate. UPS is already named in a federal lawsuit alleging negligence following accusations that the crash acted like a bomb, devastating lives and businesses.
Plane had just finished six weeks of extensive maintenance
The ill-fated plane was released after six weeks of extensive repairs on October 18, addressing substantial structural issues. However, the engine mount had not undergone a detailed inspection since 2021, raising concerns over oversight.
When Clifford viewed the crash footage, he recalled an earlier American Airlines disaster linked to engine mount issues. He emphasized that keeping aging planes in operation increases fatigue fracture risks.
Federal investigators ground all similar planes
Following the crash, federal investigators grounded all MD-11s used by UPS, FedEx, and Western Global for inspections and repairs. UPS announced it does not expect the MD-11 fleet back in the air until at least after the holidays.
If substantial repairs are mandated, experts suggest that it may be more feasible for delivery companies to procure replacements, given the age and current condition of the aircraft.
