A remarkable event unfolded Monday afternoon at Toronto Pearson Airport when a jet overturned upon landing. Witnesses describe a surreal scene marked by fiery aftermath and fortunate survival for all 80 passengers and crew on board.
Amid strong winds sweeping across Toronto Pearson Airport, a Delta flight from Minneapolis attempted to land. Despite being cleared by air traffic controllers, the aircraft astonishingly flipped upon touchdown, erupting into flames. Emergency teams rapidly responded, extinguishing the fire as passengers hung upside-down, strapped in their seats.
The incident left 18 individuals injured, including a child, although all are reportedly in stable condition according to local medical facilities. Fire Chief Todd Aitken commented on the swift evacuation executed by first responders, noting the efficient handling of the chaotic situation. Eyewitnesses inside the plane explained the tumultuous experience, stating they felt like ‘hanging like bats’ before managing to unbuckle themselves amidst calls to exit quickly.
Investigation into the cause of the crash is underway, focusing on weather conditions and possible technical malfunctions. This crash raises further questions about aviation safety, particularly given a recent fatal mid-air collision in Washington, D.C. which resulted in 67 casualties.
The event brought operations at Canada’s busiest airport to a halt, with over 200 flights canceled and several diverted to alternate locations. By late afternoon, partial runway operations resumed, although the crash site remains under investigation.
Witness accounts shared vivid descriptions of the moments following the crash. Peter Koukov, a passenger, noted his disorientation until the plane impacted the ground, while John Nelson detailed the explosion that followed their hurried evacuation. As passengers jumped from the aircraft to the snow-laden ground, they confronted both physical shock and sub-zero temperatures.
Though all aboard survived the terrifying crash landing, the incident underscores the unpredictable nature of air travel, particularly in adverse weather conditions. Authorities and investigators continue to piece together the precise causes, ensuring the safety and confidence of future flights.
