Delta Air Lines is offering $30,000 compensation to each passenger involved in a dramatic plane crash in Toronto where all 80 individuals on board survived. The incident, which occurred on Monday, involved a flight that skidded down the runway in flames before flipping over and coming to rest upside down. Remarkably, most passengers walked away without serious injuries, leaving experts and onlookers astonished.
The aircraft had arrived from Minneapolis and was carrying 76 passengers along with four crew members. While investigations into the cause of the crash are ongoing, the Canadian airline community has lauded the quick response of the flight crew and emergency responders, which is believed to have been crucial in ensuring the safety of all passengers.
In a statement, Delta made it clear that the $30,000 offer is an “advance” payment intended to alleviate immediate financial stresses on those affected, and it does not impede their right to pursue further claims for any injuries sustained. Notably, Toronto law firm Rochon Genova has been engaged by some passengers and families in pursuit of additional compensations, highlighting that more serious injuries were encountered that required medical attention.
Historically, advance compensation following incidents of this nature has been observed; for instance, Asiana Airlines offered $10,000 to passengers of a 2013 crash in San Francisco, while Alaska Airlines provided $1,500 to passengers impacted by a door malfunction last year.
Despite the severity of the crash, Delta’s leadership emphasized the airline’s commitment to safety and praised the actions of the experienced crew. CEO Ed Bastian remarked that their response was exemplary and that the airline would continue to assist those impacted by this event.
Several theories regarding the cause of the crash have emerged, including the possibility of tough winter weather conditions and a rapid descent as contributing factors. Accounts from frightened passengers also describe the forceful impact and the startling sensation of being inverted in their seats.
This incident serves as a reminder of the resilience of air travel safety protocols, which protect lives even during catastrophic events. With all passengers released from hospital by Thursday morning, it highlights the effectiveness of safety measures in emergencies.