Authorities have provided updates following a dramatic incident where a Delta Air Lines plane flipped upside down during its landing at Toronto Pearson International Airport on Monday, resulting in at least 18 individuals sustaining injuries.
The Federal Aviation Administration reported that Flight 4819 originated from Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, carrying a total of 80 individuals, which included four crew members and 76 passengers, among them 22 Canadians. Notably, 17 passengers were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment.
At a press conference, Deborah Flint, president and CEO of Toronto Pearson International Airport, praised the emergency response, stating that workers quickly evacuated the aircraft after reaching the scene within minutes. Initial reports categorized two adults and one child as critical cases, but subsequent updates confirmed that a pediatric patient had been stabilized. Injuries among other passengers ranged from minor to moderate severity.
John Nelson, a spokesperson for air ambulance services, noted that the critically injured adults—a woman in her 40s and a man in his 60s—were airlifted to medical facilities for urgent care.
In light of the accident, the Transportation Safety Board of Canada has launched an investigation, while the National Transportation Safety Board and FAA will be sending U.S. investigators to support efforts. It was reported that the runway conditions were clear, with no significant crosswinds noted during the crash landing.
Delta Air Lines expressed their concern and support for those affected, with CEO Ed Bastian offering thoughts to the individuals involved in the incident. The airline confirmed that all remaining flights in and out of Pearson International Airport for the day were canceled as a result of the situation.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford expressed relief that no fatalities occurred and noted that provincial officials are coordinating with local authorities to provide necessary support.
This incident comes on the heels of recent aviation tragedies, including a mid-air collision and a fatal medical jet crash earlier this month, highlighting the critical nature of safety in air travel.
In summary, while the situation has led to injuries, the swift response from emergency personnel and the solidarity expressed by officials and airline representatives emphasize a community committed to overcoming challenges. Moving forward, it is crucial that the investigations proceed thoroughly to ensure safety in future aviation operations.