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NTSB Video Shows UPS MD-11 Engine Failure, FAA Criticized

5/21/2026

Summary

Story summary

NTSB released video showing the left engine and pylon separate from the UPS MD-11 cargo plane during takeoff.
Investigators said Boeing lengthened the bearing inspection interval from 19,900 to 29,260 cycles, ignoring seven prior bearing failures.
The FAA approved Boeing’s request after a one-month review without extra information, which NTSB Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy criticized.
FedEx resumed MD-11 flights requiring bearing replacement every 4,000 cycles under the FAA-authorized safety plan.

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Story summary

NTSB released video showing the left engine and pylon separate from the UPS MD-11 cargo plane during takeoff.
Investigators said Boeing lengthened the bearing inspection interval from 19,900 to 29,260 cycles, ignoring seven prior bearing failures.
The FAA approved Boeing’s request after a one-month review without extra information, which NTSB Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy criticized.
FedEx resumed MD-11 flights requiring bearing replacement every 4,000 cycles under the FAA-authorized safety plan.