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Fans of classic tri-jet airliners have reason to celebrate—FedEx Express has extended the retirement of its McDonnell Douglas MD-11F fleet, meaning these legendary aircraft will remain in service until the early 2030s. Originally set to be phased out by 2028, the MD-11Fs will now continue flying until the end of 2032, keeping one of the last major fleets of this iconic airliner in operation for several more years.
A Stay of Execution for a Classic Airliner
The MD-11 first took to the skies in 1990 as a modernized successor to the DC-10, featuring improved aerodynamics, a glass cockpit, and extended range. Though it failed to win favor as a passenger aircraft, its capabilities made it a workhorse in the cargo world. Over time, most MD-11s have been retired as newer, more fuel-efficient aircraft took over, leaving FedEx as the largest remaining operator of the type.
FedEx’s decision to postpone the retirement of its MD-11s is linked to delays in acquiring newer aircraft, such as the Boeing 777F and future 777X freighters. The airline is modernizing its fleet with these more fuel-efficient jets, but with deliveries now stretching into 2026 and 2027, the trusty MD-11 will continue flying for longer than expected.
How Long Will the MD-11 Keep Flying?
FedEx currently operates 58 MD-11Fs, though many are stored or used selectively as demand fluctuates. The revised retirement schedule means the airline will begin phasing them out gradually:
What’s Replacing the MD-11?
FedEx is investing heavily in its future fleet, exercising options to purchase eight additional Boeing 777 freighters and acquiring two used ones, bringing its total 777F orders to eleven. These aircraft, along with the Boeing 767-300F, are part of FedEx’s long-term strategy to improve fuel efficiency and reduce operating costs. However, since deliveries will take time, the MD-11 remains a vital part of its cargo network.
Where to Spot the MD-11F
For plane spotters, the extended lifespan of FedEx’s MD-11F means more opportunities to see these powerful tri-jets in action. They are most commonly seen at FedEx’s major hubs, including:
Memphis International Airport (MEM) – FedEx’s global superhub Indianapolis International Airport (IND) – A key domestic hub Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) – Frequent international cargo departures Anchorage Ted Stevens International Airport (ANC) – A crucial stop for transpacific cargo operations
A Tri-Jet Rarity in the Modern Era
With the Lockheed L-1011, DC-10, and passenger MD-11s long gone from commercial service, the MD-11F is one of the last remaining active tri-jets in the world. Aviation enthusiasts eager to witness its distinctive silhouette, roaring takeoff, and impressive three-engine climbouts should take advantage of these extra years before it disappears for good.
A Last Hurrah for the MD-11
FedEx MD-11 Tokyo Narita
While its retirement is inevitable, the MD-11F’s extended service with FedEx means we’ll continue to see these historic aircraft in the skies for the rest of the decade. For aviation fans, the news is bittersweet—another chapter in the story of tri-jet airliners is drawing to a close, but not just yet.
So, if you haven’t logged a sighting of a FedEx MD-11F yet, now is the time!
Title image: By Montague Smith [GFDL 1.2 (http://www.gnu.org/licenses/old-licenses/fdl-1.2.html) or GFDL 1.2 (http://www.gnu.org/licenses/old-licenses/fdl-1.2.html)], via Wikimedia Commons
