A UPS cargo plane crashed shortly after takeoff from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport on November 4, killing at least seven people and injuring 11 others. The aircraft, carrying three crew members, struck two nearby businesses before exploding into flames, according to Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear.
Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg confirmed that four of the fatal victims were on the ground when the plane went down. A massive fire engulfed the area, prompting a shelter-in-place order for nearby residents as hundreds of firefighters battled the blaze through the night.
The crash disrupted operations at UPS’ global air cargo hub, which handles more than 300 flights and processes nearly two million packages daily. Flights were grounded and sorting operations temporarily suspended as authorities investigated the cause of the disaster.
Air travel is often considered one of the safest forms of transportation, yet tragedies like this highlight the importance of rigorous safety measures and preparedness. To learn more about how to stay safe during air travel, click through the following gallery.