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The U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has confirmed that the investigation into the fatal accident of a UPS MD-11 freighter on November 4, 2025, in Louisville also includes a thorough analysis of potential material fatigue, corrosion, and structural overload. In a recent update on the investigation (DCA26MA024), the NTSB stated that the recovered aircraft components are undergoing metallurgical analysis. This includes the inspection of fracture surfaces and primary structural elements.
Investigation of Aircraft Components
Investigators are also examining the performance of the engines, the thrust control systems, the flight control systems, and the behavior of the automation during the approach phase. The flight data recorders and cockpit voice recorders have been successfully retrieved. This data is now being cross-referenced with weather information and technical data of the aircraft.
The NTSB emphasizes that the investigation is still ongoing and that no conclusions have yet been drawn regarding the most likely cause of the accident. The agency is receiving support from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), UPS Airlines, Boeing, and engine manufacturer Pratt & Whitney.
