Delta Air Lines Plane Flips at Toronto Airport
A Delta Air Lines regional jet, flight DL4819, flipped upside down upon landing at Toronto Pearson International Airport on February 17, 2025, amid strong winds and a recent snowstorm. The crash resulted in 18 injuries, including three people in critical condition.
Casualties and Injuries
Among the 80 people on board, three individuals, including a child, suffered critical injuries. The remaining 15 injured passengers were immediately transported to hospitals. Some have since been released, as per Delta’s statement.
Severe Damage to the Plane
Video footage from the scene revealed that at least one of the plane’s two wings was detached after the crash. The plane, a CRJ900 aircraft operated by Endeavor Air, was carrying 76 passengers and four crew members when the accident occurred.
Passenger Account
Passenger John Nelson, who filmed the aftermath, shared his experience on social media. He described how the plane hit the ground sideways and flipped over, adding that passengers helped each other out of the wreckage. Nelson stated that there were no indications of problems before landing.
Weather Conditions and Investigation
At the time of the crash, Toronto Pearson Airport was experiencing high winds and blowing snow. While airport officials initially reported that conditions were not extreme, aviation experts pointed to gusty crosswinds that may have contributed to the crash. The Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) is leading the investigation, with assistance from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
Unique Nature of the Accident
Experts noted that the crash’s unique nature—where the plane ended up upside down—was a rare occurrence in aviation. Despite the severity of the incident, no fatalities were reported, highlighting advancements in aviation safety and engineering.
Impact on Airport Operations
Flight operations at Toronto Pearson Airport resumed, though two runways remained closed for the investigation. Airport officials warned of potential delays in the coming days. Despite the incident, Toronto Pearson’s president emphasized the success of first responders in preventing further loss of life.
Similar Past Incidents
This incident follows other cases of planes flipping during landings, although they were less common. Past occurrences, such as the 1999 China Airlines crash and a 2009 incident in Tokyo, have resulted in fatalities, making the survival of all passengers in this case significant.
Ongoing Investigation
Investigators are working to determine the exact cause of the crash, particularly why the plane’s right wing separated. The investigation will follow global aviation standards, with a preliminary report expected within 30 days.