Toronto Airport Crash
On February 17, 2025, Delta Air Lines Flight 4819, operated by Endeavor Air, experienced a catastrophic landing at Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ). The Bombardier CRJ-900, registration N932XJ, ended up upside down on runway 23, injuring 18 passengers but causing no fatalities.
The flight from Minneapolis-St. Paul (MSP) to YYZ carried 76 passengers and four crew members. At approximately 2:15 PM local time, the aircraft flipped over upon landing. At first, because of the gusty winds, I assumed that the accident was a wind shear-related upset during the landing, but after reviewing the landing video, it now appears to be an incomplete flare. Passengers reported a very hard landing. This collapsed the right main landing gear, causing a right-wing strike, which resulted in massive structural failure. The data recorder will clarify if the pilot applied adequate control back pressure for a proper flare, or if there is some other explanation.
Weather Conditions:
Gusty winds of 35-40 knots were reported, with visibility at 5 miles in blowing snow. Runway 23 has an ILS with a 3-degree glide path, likely used by the crew. Control tower audio warned of a possible "airflow bump," which might imply wind shear or turbulence, though the terminology was non-standard.
Injuries and Emergency Response:
Eighteen passengers were injured, three critically, including a child, yet no injuries were life-threatening. The emergency response was reported as “exemplary”, potentially preventing further harm as the aircraft was on fire.
Pilot Challenges:
Managing crosswinds in such conditions can be challenging. Techniques like crabbing to a cross-control are typical but can be difficult under these conditions. Blowing snow only adds to the complexity of the landing.
Runway and Approach:
The ILS and 3-degree glide path on runway 23 should help ensure a stable approach, but blowing snow could have obscured the pilots' visual cues and depth perception.
Investigation and Legal Aspects:
The investigation, led by the Transportation Safety Board of Canada with NTSB assistance, will focus on:
Training and Procedures: Any deviations from standard operating procedures.
Aircraft Airworthiness: Whether all systems were functioning correctly.
Airport Operations: Checking for any runway or airport management deficiencies, particularly in adverse weather.
Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring adherence to ICAO standards.
Passenger Rights and Compensation: Addressing any claims under the Montreal Convention.
