UPS Louisville Crash Puts Focus on Homes Near Runways
Federal crash data shows aircraft striking houses and streets, killing people on the ground.
By Ariana Flores ·
A UPS plane crashed shortly after takeoff from Louisville, Kentucky last year, killing the three crew members and 12 people on the ground in an industrial area near the runway. The incident has drawn attention to federal crash data showing aircraft striking homes and neighborhood streets.
Investigative reporting examined federal crash records to track where these accidents occur and how often. The review found incidents across the country in which planes hit houses and streets, injuring or killing people beyond those aboard the aircraft. Joce Sterman, a senior national investigative reporter, interviewed people pressing for industry changes. Those interviews included a Florida mayor whose city has seen multiple crashes near the runway and the mother of a 4-year-old boy who died when a plane struck the family car feet from an airport. A retired airline pilot and safety advocate also discussed measures on both sides of the runway fence.
The Federal Aviation Administration has set minimum buffer distances meant to reduce harm when aviation disasters occur. Experts cited in the reporting say more protections are needed for homes and businesses near airports.
The program also covers carbon monoxide risks from portable generators during power outages. Federal investigators studied poisonings in southeast Louisiana over four years and are calling for changes to how close generators can sit to homes. Another segment examines aircraft carrying a paramedic and medical gear to rural patients, and a consumer segment addresses credit card debt.
The report airs this weekend as part of InvestigateTV+.
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