UPS坠机调查初步报告公布

Core Insights - The NTSB released a preliminary investigation report on the UPS cargo plane crash in Louisville, Kentucky, which resulted in 14 fatalities, indicating signs of metal fatigue and abnormal stress damage on critical hardware connecting the engine to the fuselage [1][2] - The aircraft involved was a McDonnell Douglas MD-11, and the left engine's short pylon bracket showed signs of metal fatigue cracks [1] - The crash is one of the most severe cargo aircraft incidents in recent years, with three crew members and eleven ground personnel killed [1] Company Analysis - UPS had conducted an inspection of the pylon in 2021, and the aircraft had approximately 21,000 flight cycles, below the mandatory inspection threshold of 28,000 cycles [2] - The MD-11's design shares similarities with the DC-10, which was involved in a notorious crash in 1979, although experts suggest that the causes of the two incidents may differ [2] - UPS has committed to fully supporting the investigation until a final conclusion is reached and has temporarily suspended the operation of its MD-11 fleet pending the investigation results [3] Industry Implications - Regulatory authorities are expected to require more in-depth inspections and may increase the frequency of long-term checks before allowing the MD-11 to return to service [3] - The NTSB has not yet determined the reasons for the long-term stress damage on the metal components, and the final investigation report is anticipated to be released approximately one year after the incident [3]