(Reuters) -Parcel giant United Parcel Service halted cargo-sorting operations at Louisville International Airport after its wide-body freighter burst into flames shortly after takeoff on late Tuesday, killing nine people, including three crew members.

The airport, which has now reopened to air traffic, houses UPS’s largest package-handling facility and a critical hub for its global air-cargo operations.

UPS’s cargo operations were also expected to resume by Wednesday morning, but the company had not issued an official update yet.

A prolonged shutdown at the facility, known as Worldport, could have a cascading effect on the U.S. logistics network, potentially delaying deliveries and disrupting supply chains.

Below are a few key facts about the facility and its role in global commerce.

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