NTSB Preliminary Report Reveals Structural Failure as Cause of Fatal Accident

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has released a preliminary report on the deadly UPS MD-11 crash in Louisville, Kentucky, which killed all three crew members and 11 people on the ground. The report indicates that the left engine and pylon separated from the wing during takeoff, causing the aircraft to crash. The NTSB is investigating the cause of the accident and has identified the pylon structure as a key area of focus. UPS has voluntarily grounded its MD-11 fleet pending further inspection and corrective actions. The FAA has also issued an emergency airworthiness directive prohibiting further flight of MD-11 and MD-10 aircraft until inspections can be completed.