Widow of UPS Pilot Files Lawsuit Against Boeing and GE Over Crash

The widow of a UPS pilot, along with the family of another crew member, has initiated legal action against Boeing, General Electric (GE), and VT San Antonio Aerospace. This lawsuit follows the tragic crash of a UPS Airlines MD-11 aircraft on November 4, 2025, which resulted in the loss of 15 lives, including all three crew members on board. The families are seeking damages for wrongful death and negligence, citing findings from the preliminary report by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).

Details Surrounding the Crash

The incident occurred shortly after takeoff from Louisville International Airport (SDF). The aircraft’s left engine reportedly caught fire and detached from the wing moments after the flight began. According to the NTSB’s interim report, an alarm was activated in the cockpit for a duration of 25 seconds before the aircraft crashed close to the airport. The loss of the engine not only deprived the plane of necessary power but also created a significant imbalance that hindered its ability to gain altitude and maintain stability.

The lawsuit claims that the actions of the defendants contributed to the engine’s separation and subsequent crash. It asserts that the incident was not merely an accident but a result of multiple failures in the design, manufacture, and maintenance of the aircraft. The family is pursuing punitive damages and has requested a trial by jury.

Background on Engine Issues

Prior to the crash, the MD-11 had undergone maintenance in San Antonio, Texas, related to its fuel tank. A report from the NTSB in January revealed that the failure of the engine mounts was a critical factor in the engine’s detachment during takeoff. The report also indicated that issues with the engine mounts had been previously documented, with a service letter issued by Boeing in 2011 regarding potential fractures in the bearings.

While Boeing indicated that these failures would not compromise flight safety, the NTSB’s ongoing investigation will thoroughly examine this assertion along with the aircraft’s maintenance logs.

Mark Lanier, the attorney representing the family of Captain Dana Diamond, emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “When an engine separates from a wing seconds after takeoff, that’s not an accident. That’s a failure by the companies responsible for building and maintaining that aircraft.”

In the aftermath of the crash, major operators of the MD-11, including UPS and FedEx Express, grounded their fleets of this aircraft type. UPS decided to retire its entire subfleet of over two dozen MD-11s, prioritizing safety. In contrast, FedEx has opted to maintain its fleet of 29 MD-11s, planning to return them to commercial service.

The NTSB continues its investigation, with the final report expected to provide a comprehensive analysis of the crash. This legal action reflects not only the personal tragedy for the families involved but also raises critical questions about aircraft safety and accountability in the aviation industry.