Aviation expert details key factors in Delta crash that saved lives as plane flipped upside-down

An aviation expert has detailed the key factors in the Delta plane crash that saved lives after the aircraft flipped upside-down upon landing at Toronto Pearson International Airport.

Flight 4819 crashed and flipped upside down while trying to land in Canada, after earlier taking off from Minneapolis, Minnesota.

80 people were onboard the flight (76 passengers and four crew members), though every person evacuated safely, according to officials.

At least 18 people had been transported to hospital with injuries, with three people reported as suffering critical injuries, according to medical transport company Ornge, The Independent reports.

While their identities are yet to be publicly disclosed, they are reported as being a child, woman in her 40s, and man in his 60s.

The Delta plane flipped upside-down (GEOFF ROBINS/AFP via Getty Images)

Footage of the crash has circulated online over the past few days, with many gobsmacked no deaths had been reported from the incident.

Particularly because the plane flipped upside-down, it's incredible the vast majority escaped the aircraft unharmed or with minor injuries.

Professor Brett Molesworth, Head of School of Human Factors and Aviation Safety at University of New South Wales in Sydney, Australia, has explained the factors that saved lives.

He told UNILAD: "Aircraft, like modern cars are built with certain safety features, some of which include seats (rated to withstand a particular g-force, fire retardant, flotation device), seat belts (restrain occupant in case of a sudden deceleration) and emergency lighting (in-case of low visibility) to name a few.

"In addition, the pre-flight safety briefing is provided to passengers before every flight to educate them about the safety features of the aircraft they are aboard, as well as the appropriate behaviour during an emergency (cabin crew members primary role is safety, and hence aided in the evacuation)."

The aviation expert has explained the key factors that saved lives (GEOFF ROBINS/AFP via Getty Images)

After the footage revealed the plane had released a ball of fire and smoke after landing, some will question why the aircraft didn't explode.

Professor Molesworth added: "Aircraft have design features to prevent explosions, and contain and slow down release of flammable liquids. Wings, where flammable liquids are stored (fuel) have compartments, as well as fuel shut-off values."

Following the crash, Delta CEO Ed Bastian said, as quoted by The Independent: "The hearts of the entire global Delta family are with those affected by today’s incident at Toronto-Pearson International Airport.

"I want to express my thanks to the many Delta and Endeavor team members and the first responders on site."

UNILAD has previously reached out to Delta Air Lines for comment.