Toronto Pearson International Airport witnessed a dramatic incident on Monday, February 17, 2025, when Delta Air Lines Flight 4819 flipped upside down after landing, injuring at least 21 people among its 80 occupants, including a child. Emergency responders quickly arrived on the scene to assist, with gasps heard from passengers who later described the frightening moments of the crash.

Initial reports indicated that at least 19 individuals were transported to local hospitals, with injuries categorized mainly as minor to moderate. However, the number was later revised to 21 as emergency medical services continued evaluations. According to Peel Regional Paramedic Services, three passengers sustained critical injuries, including an adult male in his 60s, a female passenger in her 40s, and a child who was promptly admitted to the Hospital for Sick Children.

Flight 4819, which originated from Minneapolis, went through harrowing conditions at Toronto Pearson Airport, as high winds of up to 40 mph and frigid temperatures followed a significant snowstorm that had left the runway covered in ice and snow. Eyewitness videos captured the moment the aircraft hit the runway, erupted in flames, and subsequently flipped over as it skidded along the surface. Passengers reported hitting the "ceiling, which had become the floor" after the sudden crash landing.

Toronto Pearson Airport's CEO, Deborah Flint, praised the quick response from the airport's emergency services and the crew on board, who conducted what she described as a “textbook response” during such an emergency. “The crew of Delta Flight 4819 heroically led passengers to safety amidst flames and smoke,” she stated during a press briefing, emphasizing the importance of the training that such professionals receive.

Investigation into the incident is being led by the Transportation Safety Board of Canada, with assistance from both the National Transportation Safety Board and the Federal Aviation Administration. While the exact cause of the crash remains unknown, preliminary assessments indicate that conditions may not have played a significant role, as Chief Todd Aitken of Toronto Pearson asserted that the runway was dry during the time of landing.

As operations at the airport resumed just hours post-incident, approximately 400 flights faced cancellations due to an already busy operational schedule that was attempting to recover from the preceding weekend's weather chaos. Ongoing updates from Delta Air Lines confirmed that they continue to support those affected by the incident, ensuring all injured are receiving the necessary medical attention.

This incident adds to the growing concerns regarding aviation safety, especially in the wake of numerous high-profile aircraft accidents in North America earlier this year, including a deadly collision between a passenger plane and a military helicopter and a fatal medical transport plane crash.

For ongoing updates and more information on the investigation, please refer to ABC News.