It’s not every day that a UPS MD-11F drops in unannounced. For most local spotters and aviation fans, today was one of those rare moments that turn an ordinary afternoon into something memorable. The aircraft in question, N264UP, once flew under Lufthansa Cargo’s colors before joining the UPS fleet. Its unexpected arrival—diverted from Ontario International Airport (ONT) due to weather—brought an unmistakable sense of excitement to those who happened to be near the field when it touched down.
The MD-11F is a striking machine, a true holdover from another era in aviation. Its trijet layout, distinctive tail-mounted engine, and stretched fuselage give it a commanding presence, one that contrasts sharply with the workhorse Boeing 767 freighters that typically serve this airport. UPS relies heavily on its 767F fleet for regional and medium-haul operations, so seeing an MD-11F here feels almost like spotting a classic car cruising through a modern city—unexpected, loud, and beautiful.
Weather diversions are a routine part of airline operations, but when they involve rare aircraft types, they can cause quite a stir. Reports indicated that poor weather and low visibility at ONT forced several aircraft to divert earlier in the day. N264UP was among them, rerouted to a nearby field that could handle its size and weight. Once the big trijet touched down, it stood out immediately on the ramp, towering over the familiar narrowbody freighters and regional jets nearby.
For the local aviation community, this was a special occasion. Enthusiasts quickly gathered with cameras and long lenses, eager to capture what might be a once-in-a-year sighting. The MD-11F is a favorite among spotters not just for its design but also for its rarity—production ended in 2000, and only a handful remain in active service today. Even within UPS’s own fleet, the type is being gradually phased out in favor of more efficient twin-engine aircraft like the 767 and 747-8F.
N264UP itself carries a bit of history. Originally delivered to Lufthansa Cargo, the aircraft spent years flying international routes before being acquired by UPS and re-registered in the U.S. The MD-11F’s versatility and range have made it a valuable asset for long-haul freight, but as more airlines retire the type, each appearance feels increasingly nostalgic.
After landing, the aircraft was parked on a remote stand while crews coordinated refueling and flight planning for its eventual repositioning. Ground staff and flight operations worked efficiently, but even among professionals, there was an unmistakable curiosity about the big trijet sitting among a lineup of twins.
Moments like these highlight the unpredictability that makes aviation so fascinating. A weather diversion might be a headache for dispatchers, but for those on the ground, it’s a reminder of how dynamic and interconnected the industry is. Seeing an MD-11F—especially one with such a storied past—up close feels like witnessing a piece of aviation history still at work.
As N264UP prepares to depart once conditions at ONT improve, local spotters will likely be watching closely, cameras ready. After all, you never know when, or if, another MD-11F will drop in again.
