July 26

Chartered in 1801, the Surrey Iron Railway began operations between Wandsworth and Croydon, transporting goods by horse-drawn wagons on iron rails. This innovative plateway allowed merchants to move freight more reliably than on muddy roads. Although it did not carry passengers, its success demonstrated the potential of rail transport. The railway operated on a gauge of approximately five feet and spanned over nine miles of track. It inspired future developments in steam locomotive technology. Regular services continued until 1838 when competition from newer lines emerged. The Surrey Iron Railway remains a milestone in the history of rail infrastructure.

Aloha Airlines commenced scheduled service between Honolulu and the neighboring islands, revolutionizing inter-island travel in Hawaii. As the state’s first locally operated carrier, it offered a faster alternative to sea transport. The airline’s introduction spurred economic growth and tourism across the archipelago. Using Douglas DC-3 aircraft, Aloha established reliable connections for passengers and freight. Its launch marked the beginning of modern commercial aviation in Hawaii.

On July 26, 1993, Asiana Airlines Flight 733 crashed into a ridge on Mt. Ungeo during its third landing attempt at Mokpo Airport. The flight encountered poor visibility and adverse weather conditions. Out of the 116 passengers and crew aboard, 68 tragically lost their lives. The accident prompted investigations into pilot decision-making and airport approach procedures. It led to safety recommendations aimed at improving landing protocols under challenging conditions. The crash remains one of South Korea’s most serious aviation disasters.

On July 26, 2011, a Royal Moroccan Air Force Lockheed C-130 Hercules transport plane crashed shortly after takeoff from Guelmim Airport. All 80 military personnel and crew aboard were killed in the tragic accident. Poor weather conditions and potential technical failures were investigated as contributing factors. The crash represented one of the deadliest aviation disasters in Morocco’s military history. Authorities conducted thorough inquiries to improve flight safety protocols. The loss deeply affected the Moroccan armed forces and prompted reviews of aircraft maintenance practices.