The Blubber

Plane Crashes, Flips at Toronto’s Pearson Airport, Injuring 18

A Delta Air Lines flight crash-landed at Toronto Pearson International Airport on Monday afternoon, flipping onto its back and injuring 18 passengers, according to officials.

Runway Closures and Response

The incident temporarily halted departures and arrivals on the airport’s three remaining runways, but operations resumed by 5 p.m. ET, according to Deborah Flint, CEO of the Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA).

Flint confirmed that all injured passengers were transported to area hospitals, though it remains unclear if any sustained critical injuries.

By Monday night, the GTAA clarified that 17 injured individuals were taken to the hospital immediately, with another transported later. The reported number of injured passengers has fluctuated, with Peel Regional Paramedic Services initially stating eight injuries before revising the count to 15. Later, Delta confirmed 18 total injuries, though paramedics noted that three of those were family members who accompanied patients to the hospital.

Passenger Reactions and Investigation

Video footage posted online shows passengers reacting in shock moments after the crash. In one clip, a woman still strapped in her seat exclaims:
"I was just in a plane crash. Oh my God."

The aircraft, Delta Flight 4819, operated by Endeavor Air, was carrying 76 passengers and four crew members from Minneapolis to Toronto. Flint noted that 22 Canadians were aboard, with the remaining passengers representing various nationalities.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation, and two runways will remain closed while officials assess the scene.

Officials Praise First Responders

GTAA fire chief Todd Aitken confirmed that runway conditions were dry, with no crosswinds at the time of landing.

Flint emphasized the swift emergency response, stating:
"We are very grateful there was no loss of life and relatively minor injuries. The heroic actions of first responders made a difference today."

She added that many passengers have already reunited with loved ones, while others are receiving support and care at the airport.