Overview
• Operator: Endeavor Airlines on behalf of Delta Airlines
• Aircraft Model: Canadair CRJ-900
• Registration: N932XJ
• Flight Number: DL-4819
• Route: Minneapolis, MN (USA) → Toronto, ON (Canada)
• Date: 17 February 2025
• Occupants: 76 passengers, 4 crew
• Injuries: 1 critical, 7 minor
• Nature of Incident: Runway excursion and rollover upon landing
Incident Summary
Endeavor Airlines flight DL-4819, a CRJ-900 (N932XJ) operating on behalf of Delta Airlines, was landing at Toronto Pearson International Airport (CYYZ) when it lost control, veered off the runway, and flipped over. The aircraft came to a stop inverted, with both wings, main landing gear, and tailplane separated from the airframe.
Emergency responders successfully evacuated all 80 occupants, with one person critically injured and seven others sustaining minor injuries.
The Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) of the United States have launched a joint investigation into the accident.
Sequence of Events
Approach & Landing
• The aircraft was on final approach to Runway 23 at Toronto Pearson.
• Snowfall, strong crosswinds, and reduced runway friction were reported in METAR data.
• Landing appeared normal initially, but the aircraft lost control upon touchdown.
Loss of Control & Rollover
• Shortly after touchdown, the aircraft veered off the runway and began to overturn.
• The fuselage impacted the ground, causing both wings, the tailplane, and main landing gear to separate.
• The aircraft came to a complete stop inverted on the runway.
Emergency Response & Evacuation
• Toronto Airport Fire and Rescue Services were immediately dispatched.
• All 80 people on board were accounted for.
• One passenger sustained critical injuries, and seven others had minor injuries.
• The critically injured individual was transported to a hospital, while others received on-site medical attention.
Weather & Runway Conditions
• Snow and ice accumulation on the runway was reported.
• Strong crosswinds (270° at 28 knots, gusting 36 knots) contributed to challenging landing conditions.
• Blowing snow and reduced runway traction were identified as possible contributing factors.
Investigation & Official Statements
Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) Statement
“TSBAir is deploying a team to investigate an aircraft accident at Toronto / Lester B. Pearson International Airport, ON. The TSB will gather information and assess the occurrence.”
National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) Statement
“The NTSB is leading a team of U.S. investigators to assist the Transportation Safety Board of Canada with their investigation of today’s accident of a Delta Air Lines Bombardier CRJ900 at Toronto Pearson International Airport. Per international protocols under ICAO Annex 13, any information about the investigation will be released by the TSB.”
Toronto Pearson International Airport Statement
“All occupants have been safely evacuated. One person sustained critical injuries, while seven others were treated for minor injuries.”
Potential Causes & Analysis
1. Runway Conditions & Weather Factors
• Crosswind gusts (up to 36 knots) may have led to directional instability.
• Snow accumulation and icy conditions could have contributed to the loss of traction.
• Blowing snow reduced visibility, making it difficult for pilots to maintain centerline alignment.
2. Landing Speed & Aircraft Configuration
• The aircraft may have landed at a higher-than-normal speed due to strong winds.
• Pilots might have encountered difficulties applying braking action on the slick surface.
3. Mechanical & Control Issues
• Investigators will examine whether the aircraft suffered any landing gear failures or flight control malfunctions before the loss of control.
Impact on Operations & Airport Closure
• Runway 05/23 was closed following the accident, causing delays at Toronto Pearson International Airport.
• Numerous flights were affected, with inbound flights experiencing diversions and extended holding times.
• The aircraft remains on the runway as investigators examine the wreckage.
Safety Recommendations & Preventative Measures
• Enhanced crosswind training for pilots to manage unstable landing conditions.
• Reevaluation of braking action reporting and friction measurement techniques in winter conditions.
• Review of aircraft handling characteristics in extreme crosswind landings.
• Investigation into whether landing gear integrity contributed to the accident.
Disclaimer
This report is based on available information as of 17 February 2025. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the completeness of the details cannot be guaranteed. If you are the rightful owner of any referenced materials and wish them removed, please email takedown@cockpitking.com.
