Xing TianA Delta Connection CRJ-900 aircraft crash-landed at Toronto Pearson International Airport on February 17, 2025, at 2.13 PM (3.13 AM on Feb 18 Singapore time) after an 86-minute flight. It flipped onto its roof upon landing, coming to rest in an overturned position.
The flight, operating as Delta Flight 4819, had departed from Minneapolis-Saint Paul (MSP) and was attempting to land at Pearson Airport when the incident occurred. There were 76 passengers and 4 crew members on board.
Image credit: A Fly Guy’s Cabin Crew Lounge | Facebook
Casualties and injuries
According to officials, all 80 people on board survived. However, 18 individuals sustained injuries. Among them, three, including a child, are in critical condition, while the remaining passengers and crew members suffered minor injuries. Emergency medical teams quickly transported the injured to local hospitals for treatment.
Possible causes and investigation
The crash happened during heavy snowfall and strong winds in Toronto, though it is still unclear if weather conditions directly caused the accident. Investigators from Canada’s Transportation Safety Board (TSB) and the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched an inquiry to determine the cause of the crash.
Emergency response and eyewitness accounts
Witnesses and air traffic control recordings described the scene as chaotic. Emergency responders rushed to the site after reports that the aircraft had flipped over and caught fire. Fire crews quickly extinguished the flames and helped evacuate passengers from the wreckage.
Image credit: A Fly Guy’s Cabin Crew Lounge | Facebook
Despite the terrifying situation, the flight crew played a crucial role in ensuring the safety of everyone on board. A flight attendant was seen assisting passengers out of the overturned plane, showcasing the professionalism and quick response of the crew on board.
Airline and airport response
The aircraft was operated by Endeavor Air, a regional airline that flies under the Delta Connection brand. Delta Air Lines released a statement expressing concern for the passengers and crew, stating that they are working closely with investigators to understand what happened.
Pearson Airport temporarily suspended all arrivals and departures following the crash, leading to significant flight disruptions. However, operations resumed later that day as emergency crews cleared the wreckage and secured the runway.
This incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of air travel and the importance of strict safety measures. As the investigation continues, additional details are likely to surface in the hours and days ahead. We extend our thoughts to those impacted by this incident.
