Northwest Airlines Flight 255 was a scheduled flight from Detroit, Michigan, to Phoenix, Arizona. On August 16, 1987, the aircraft, a McDonnell Douglas MD-82, experienced a catastrophic crash shortly after departure from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport. The flight had reached an altitude of only about 30 feet when it began to roll to the left, experiencing a loss of control. This sudden maneuver resulted in the aircraft striking a bridge and subsequently crashing into a nearby parking lot, leading to extensive damage and fire. Among those on the flight, 154 of the 155 onboard were killed. Miraculously, the sole survivor was a four-year-old girl, who was eventually rescued from the wreckage. Investigations revealed that pilot error was a significant factor contributing to the crash. The flight crew failed to properly configure the aircraft's flaps and neglected to perform necessary pre-flight checks. Additionally, weather conditions at the time were relatively clear, which left questions regarding the crew's actions during the critical moments after takeoff. The aircraft had also sustained damage during a prior mission that had not been adequately addressed before its next flight. The aftermath of the incident brought attention to the need for improved safety protocols and regulations in commercial aviation. It prompted a reevaluation of flight crew training, especially concerning adherence to procedures for takeoff and aircraft configuration, which ultimately led to changes in industry practices to enhance passenger safety.