Boeing Planes Losing Engines on Takeoff – Grounded!
Published Date: 11/14/2025
Rule
Summary
The FAA is grounding all Boeing MD-11 and MD-11F airplanes until they’re inspected and fixed after a scary accident where an engine fell off during takeoff. This new rule starts December 1, 2025, and owners must act fast to keep flying safely. Fixing these issues might cost time and money, but it’s all about keeping everyone safe in the skies!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
MD-11 Fleet Grounding Until Fixes
If you own or operate a Boeing MD-11 or MD-11F, your airplane cannot fly until it is inspected and any required fixes are done using a method approved by the FAA. The rule applies to all MD-11/MD-11F airplanes and the FAA estimates it affects 109 U.S.-registered airplanes; it is effective December 1, 2025 (emergency AD issued November 8, 2025).
Special Flight Permits Restricted
Special flight permits (which sometimes let an aircraft fly to a repair location) are not allowed for affected MD-11/MD-11F airplanes unless specifically approved under the AD's procedures. The restriction is in effect as of the AD and ties any exceptions to approval procedures in paragraph (i)(1) of the rule.
FAA Can Approve Alternative Compliance
The FAA's Manager, AIR-520, can approve Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) for inspecting, repairing, or altering MD-11/MD-11F airplanes if requested under the procedures in 14 CFR 39.19. Approved AMOCs or Boeing ODA approvals that the Manager authorizes may allow operators to use alternative repair or inspection methods.
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