FedEx to extend MD-11F freighter operations until 2032
Federal Express (FedEx) will extend the operation of the MD-11F freighter for another four years, the company announced in a filing with the Stock Exchange.
The three-engine widebody manufactured by McDonnell Douglas (now Boeing) is one of the express company’s main cargo planes and was due to be retired by 2028.
Now, however, FedEx plans to keep it in service until the end of 2032. Although it did not explain the reason for the postponement, it is understood that it involves delays in deliveries of new, more efficient aircraft.
FedEx also revealed that it has exercised the option to acquire eight Boeing 777Fs that will be delivered in the calendar years 2026 and 2027. In addition, there are nine 767-300Fs pending delivery.
“These aircraft are significantly more fuel-efficient per unit than the aircraft types previously utilized, and these expenditures are necessary to achieve significant long-term operating savings and to replace older aircraft,” the company explained.
Five dozen MD-11Fs in operation
Initiated as a rival to the Boeing 747 and Airbus A340, the MD-11 is a larger and more efficient variant of the DC-10. However, only 200 aircraft were completed between 1988 and 2000.
The widebody soon began to be used as a freighter, a role that has remained with it since 2014, when the last passenger flight was made.
There are currently 51 MD-11s in service worldwide, with 18 other aircraft in flight condition, according to Planespotters.
FedEx has 25 aircraft (22 active), while UPS flies 29 (26 in operation) and Western Cargo has 15 trijets, three of which are in service.
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