A Delta Air Lines flight crash-landed at Toronto Pearson International Airport, flipping upside down upon impact. The accident resulted in injuries to 18 passengers, with no reported fatalities. Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the crash.
Details of the Incident
On February 17, 2025, Delta Air Lines Flight 4819, operated by Endeavor Air, was en route from Minneapolis to Toronto when it encountered a severe landing mishap. The Bombardier CRJ900 aircraft attempted to land amid snowy and windy conditions, but the impact caused it to skid, overturn, and come to rest upside down on the runway.
Passenger Accounts
Eyewitnesses described a turbulent landing that quickly escalated into a terrifying situation. John Nelson, a passenger on the flight, reported:
“The plane hit the ground super hard, then went sideways before flipping over.”
The sudden impact left passengers scrambling to evacuate, with airport emergency crews responding immediately.
Emergency Response
Quick Evacuation and Rescue
- Emergency teams arrived within minutes and safely evacuated all 80 passengers and crew members.
- Among the 18 injured, three were in critical condition but later stabilized.
- A pediatric passenger was airlifted to Toronto’s Hospital for Sick Children for further evaluation.
Fire and Airport Disruptions
- The aircraft’s fuselage caught fire, but firefighters managed to contain it swiftly.
- Toronto Pearson Airport temporarily suspended operations, affecting several inbound and outbound flights.
- Two runways remained closed as investigators and emergency teams worked at the scene.
Investigation Underway
Authorities from the Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) and the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched a full investigation. Initial reports suggest:
- The runway was dry despite previous snowfall.
- Weather conditions were clear but windy, potentially causing instability during landing.
- No immediate mechanical failures have been identified.
Experts are now analyzing black box recordings, pilot communications, and flight data to determine what led to the crash.
Impact on Airport Operations
- Flights at Toronto Pearson resumed after a five-hour delay.
- Passengers on affected flights were offered compensation and alternative travel arrangements.
- Delta Air Lines issued a statement expressing concern and assuring full cooperation with investigators.