A Delta Airlines flight arriving from Minneapolis crashed on the runway at Pearson International Airport on Monday afternoon, leaving 18 people injured.
The incident occurred just before 2:15 p.m. and involved Endeavor Flight 4819, a Mitsubishi CRJ-900LR aircraft, which flipped over on the tarmac. Images from the scene show the plane upside down, with emergency crews responding to the situation.
Air traffic control audio revealed that the aircraft was described as “upside down and burning” following the crash. Pearson International Airport temporarily suspended all arrivals and departures, leading to widespread diversions. However, operations resumed by 5 p.m., as confirmed by the Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA).
Emergency Response and Passenger Safety
In a news conference, GTAA CEO Deborah Flint commended the swift response, calling it “textbook” and emphasizing the relief that there were no fatalities. “We are very grateful that there was no loss of life and relatively minor injuries,” Flint stated.
The flight was carrying 80 people, including 76 passengers and four crew members. Among them, 22 were Canadian. Initial reports from Ornge suggested three individuals, including a child, had critical injuries, but a later update from GTAA officials stated no critical cases were identified.
Peel Regional Police Superintendent Waheed Butt confirmed that officers assisted in securing the site and will continue providing support as needed. Toronto Pearson Fire Chief Todd Aitken highlighted the coordinated emergency response, which involved six fire engines from Mississauga Fire, two district chiefs, and 18 paramedic units. Fire suppression efforts were immediately initiated, and passengers began self-evacuating.
Survivor Accounts and Investigation Updates
Crash survivor John Nelson, who was seated in the 10th row, described the chaotic scene after impact. “It was a routine landing until we hit the ground hard, skidded sideways, and flipped over. It was mass chaos inside,” he told CNN. Nelson also mentioned hearing an explosion after evacuating, with fire crews quickly responding to douse the flames.
Aviation expert John Cox noted that the CRJ-900LR is structurally strong and built to high safety standards. Data from the Aviation Safety Network indicates that while there have been over 100 incidents involving this aircraft since 2005, none resulted in fatalities.
Peel paramedics confirmed that 18 people sustained injuries, with most transported to local hospitals. The cause of the crash remains under investigation by Transport Canada, with the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) also sending a team to assist.
Weather and Operational Impact
According to Environment Canada, strong winds and blowing snow were recorded at the airport during the crash, with gusts reaching between 51 and 65 km/h. Audio recordings from the control tower suggest pilots were warned of possible air flow turbulence while landing.
GTAA has announced that two runways will remain closed for the coming days, potentially leading to further flight disruptions. Travelers are advised to check with their airlines for updates.
Reactions from Officials
Several political leaders expressed their concern and gratitude towards first responders. Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre and Ontario Liberal Leader Bonnie Crombie extended well wishes to the injured. Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow and Ontario Premier Doug Ford both acknowledged the efforts of emergency crews, with Ford confirming provincial support for the response.
Transportation Minister Anita Anand reassured the public that all 80 passengers have been accounted for and stated that authorities are closely monitoring the situation.
Delta Airlines CEO Ed Bastian issued a statement saying the company’s primary focus is on supporting those affected. “The hearts of the entire Delta family are with those impacted,” Bastian said, expressing gratitude for the efforts of first responders.
The Transportation Safety Board of Canada will lead the investigation, with updates expected in the coming days.
