FedEx Express plans to resume flights with its McDonnell Douglas MD-11 freighter fleet in May, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal.
Company management informed employees that it awaits the final FAA-approved procedure to return the three-engine aircraft to service. FedEx has scheduled internal briefings on the type and intends a gradual reintroduction, with at least two MD-11 freighters expected to fly in the first half of May, a person familiar with the matter told the newspaper.
The fleet has been largely grounded since a November 4, 2025, accident in Louisville, Kentucky, which prompted a halt in operations pending safety assessments by authorities. The timeline for a full return remains uncertain, pending the Federal Aviation Administrations review of operational procedures.
FedEx operates the largest remaining MD-11 freighter fleet, with 29 aircraft. A separate report indicated preparations to reactivate 28 MD-11s by the end of May, with support from Boeing.