Plane Overturns During Landing at Toronto Pearson Airport

A Delta Air Lines flight from Minneapolis crashed and overturned at Toronto Pearson International Airport on Monday afternoon, injuring 18 passengers. The incident followed a weekend of heavy snowfall that had already caused flight delays and cancellations.

What Happened?

The Mitsubishi CRJ-900LR, operated by Delta’s subsidiary Endeavor Air, flipped onto its back while attempting to land. The Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) confirmed that all 76 passengers and four crew members were accounted for. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

Injuries and Emergency Response

Emergency crews responded immediately. Initially, Peel Regional Paramedic Services reported eight injuries, which later increased to 18. Among those injured:

• A child was transported to Toronto’s Hospital for Sick Children in critical condition.
• A man in his 60s and a woman in her 40s suffered critical injuries.
• The remaining passengers had minor injuries.

Ontario’s air ambulance service, Ornge, sent three helicopters and two critical care land ambulances to assist. Peel Regional Police noted that most passengers did not suffer serious harm, but a full assessment is ongoing.

Passenger Accounts

Passengers described the chaotic moments after the crash. Peter Carlson, a passenger on the flight, recounted that he was strapped in when the plane flipped over. Videos posted on social media show passengers disembarking from the overturned plane. Some described the experience as “terrifying”, while others praised the quick response of emergency teams.

Impact on Flights and Airport Operations

The crash led to temporary runway closures, suspending arrivals and departures. Flights were diverted to Hamilton International Airport and Montreal’s Trudeau International Airport. Pearson resumed normal operations at 5 p.m. ET, but two runways remain closed for the investigation.

Investigation Underway

The Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) and the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched investigations. Officials will analyze flight data, crew actions, and weather conditions. Though runway conditions were reportedly dry, some experts questioned if crosswinds contributed to the crash.

Statements from Officials

Delta Air Lines confirmed Flight 4819’s involvement in the accident and assured passengers that supporting them remains their priority.

Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow expressed relief that all passengers survived, thanking first responders for their quick action. Ontario Premier Doug Ford and other officials acknowledged emergency teams for their swift response.

Federal Transport Minister Anita Anand urged travelers to check flight schedules, as disruptions may continue.

What’s Next?

Authorities will continue investigating what caused the aircraft to flip upon landing. Travelers with upcoming flights through Toronto Pearson Airport should monitor airline updates for possible residual delays. Officials will release more information as the investigation progresses. Monitor airline updates for any residual delays.

More…

• https://www.forbes.com/sites/alisondurkee/2025/02/17/delta-flight-crashes-while-landing-in-toronto-what-to-know
• https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/toronto-pearson-overturned-airplane-1.7461227
• https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/plane-crashes-in-torontos-pearson-airport-the-aircraft-is-upside-down-and-burning/article_3f6bf1e8-ed69-11ef-a888-43d587f41274.html 
• https://www.overheretoronto.com/severe-winter-weather-disrupts-travel-across-canada