The NTSB's preliminary investigation into UPS Flight 2976 points to fatigue cracking within the left engine pylon structure as a key focus.
The MD-11F crashed shortly after takeoff, with surveillance video showing the No. 1 engine and pylon separating from the wing moments after rotation, resulting in the deaths of 14 people.
Evidence of fatigue cracks was found on multiple fracture surfaces of the left pylon's aft-mount lugs, leading to UPS grounding its MD-11 fleet and the FAA issuing emergency airworthiness directives for MD-11 and DC-10 models, referencing the similar 1979 American Airlines Flight 191 accident.
The National Transportation Safety Board says fatigue cracking within the left engine pylon structure is a key focus of its investigation into the crash of UPS Flight 2976, according to a preliminary report released Thursday.
Ryan is Group President for Firecrown's Aviation Group. In 2013, he founded AirlineGeeks.com, a leading trade publication covering the airline industry. Since then, his work has been featured in several publications and news outlets, including CNN, WJLA, CNET, and Business Insider. During his time in the airline industry, he's worked in roles pertaining to airport/airline operations while holding a B.S. in Air Transportation Management from Arizona State University along with an MBA. Previously, he worked for a Part 135 operator and later a major airline. Ryan is also an Adjunct Instructor at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.
