A tragic UPS cargo plane crash in Kentucky has prompted two wrongful death lawsuits, alleging the company made maintenance choices prioritizing profits over safety. The lawsuit, filed by Clifford Law Offices and Sam Aguiar Injury Lawyers, accuses UPS of operating older aircraft without necessary maintenance. The recent incident, described as a fiery crash during takeoff, resulted in the loss of three pilots and eleven individuals on the ground.
The November 4 crash occurred after the left engine detached from the plane. Reports indicate that previous inspections had not adequately addressed the aircraft's significant age and wear. Lawyer Robert Clifford stated that the now-grounded MD-11s, averaging over 30 years, are too risky for package delivery operations. He described the plane as 'old and tired,' reiterating that operational cutbacks implicate higher risks for crashes.
UPS and GE, the manufacturer of the aircraft's engines, have expressed condolences while stating they are cooperating with ongoing federal investigations. The lawsuits named both companies along with VT San Antonio, which conducted maintenance on the aircraft. Safety inspections have since resulted in grounding all MD-11s for scrutiny regarding their capability for further service.
The crash not only claimed valuable lives but also highlighted the impending legal battles, as operational standards and accountability in the aviation industry come under scrutiny. As the investigations progress, the legacy of the MD-11 may be irrevocably changed, placing manufacturers and delivery companies in a spotlight of accountability.
