A tumultuous scene unfolded at Toronto Pearson Airport on Monday afternoon when a Delta Air Lines flight crashed while landing, resulting in numerous injuries among the passengers aboard the flight.

A Delta Connection flight, operated by Endeavor Air, was landing at Toronto Pearson Airport when it crashed, with all passengers and crew safely evacuated but several injured, as Fox News reports.

The flight, Delta Connection 4819, was on its route from Minneapolis to Toronto. Passengers and crew were aboard the CRJ-900 jet when the incident occurred.

Toronto Pearson Airport became the focus of attention as the crash happened shortly after 2:15 p.m. local time, first reported by CTV.

Plane Found Upside Down, Mangled

Upon the dramatic landing, the aircraft was discovered upside down on the runway, the scene starkly highlighted by the snow. A total of 80 people were on board, with four crew members and 76 passengers. Eighteen individuals sustained injuries, and three were in critical condition.

Transportation of critically injured individuals included air ambulances heading to two Toronto hospitals. Sunnybrook Health Sciences Center and St. Michael’s Hospital received patients who were seriously injured during the accident. Additionally, a young child, approximately four years old, was transported to The Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto.

Eyewitnesses Describe Harrowing Crash Scene

Weather conditions at the time of landing featured winds between 20-30 mph with gusts nearing 40 mph. Additionally, a helicopter pilot who was nearby at the time of the accident described the plane as being "upside down and burning," painting a vivid picture of the harrowing scene.

Shortly after the incident, the airport acknowledged the event, posting that they were "aware of an incident upon landing" involving a plane from Minneapolis. Operations were temporarily halted but resumed by around 5 p.m.

Investigators Begin Thorough Examination

The incident has drawn the attention of the Transportation Safety Board of Canada, who will now spearhead a comprehensive investigation into the crash.

The Federal Aviation Administration also affirmed its interest and involvement. American Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy revealed that FAA personnel were on their way to assist with inquiries.

He noted, "I’ve been in touch with my counterpart in Canada to offer assistance and help with the investigation."

One of the first responders, Peel Regional Paramedic Services Superintendent Lawrence Saindon, provided information on the injured passengers. "Those three were critical, non-life-threatening injuries," he explained, underscoring the severity yet manageability of most of the injuries sustained.

Airport Resumes Operations After Chaos

Airport activities resumed within a few hours as order was restored. Nonetheless, the day’s events left an indelible mark on the passengers and crew who endured the crash. The presence of rescue teams and authorities pervaded the air as essential investigations commenced to discern the cause of the mishap.

The critical nature of such incidents emphasizes the importance of safety measures and timely intervention. Quick evacuation procedures ensured the well-being of everyone aboard, with no fatalities reported. Such preparatory and reactive measures by the crew and rescue teams bundled together to mitigate a potentially disastrous episode.

Results of Inquiry Eagerly Awaited

As the public and governmental bodies await updates, the formal inquiry is anticipated to shed light on the factors contributing to the crash. The airport authority continues to evaluate safety protocols to prevent future occurrences, reassuring travelers of proactive steps towards maintaining their security.

The crash at Toronto Pearson has ignited discussions around aviation safety during adverse weather conditions, an area the forthcoming investigation may explore.

With the involvement of multiple agencies, a comprehensive understanding of the factors at play should come to light, guiding future practices in airline operations.

Despite the unfortunate occurrence, the resilient response by emergency services and aviation authorities speaks to the effectiveness of existing emergency protocols. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of remaining vigilant to mitigate risks associated with air travel.