Delta Air Lines is offering $30,000 to each passenger following a harrowing landing incident at Toronto Pearson International Airport. On February 17, a CRJ900 twin-jet operated by Delta subsidiary Endeavor Air encountered a turbulent landing. The flight, arriving from Minneapolis, ended dramatically when the rear landing gear buckled and the right wing sheared off, causing the aircraft to flip over. Despite the severe nature of the incident, all 80 individuals onboard, including 76 passengers and four crew members, survived.
Strong winds had been reported around Toronto on the day of the incident, contributing to the challenging landing conditions. As the plane touched down, its hard landing resulted in passengers being suspended upside down by their seatbelts. Out of the 80 people on board, 21 passengers were taken to a hospital for treatment. Fortunately, they have all since been released without any life-threatening injuries.
In a bid to compensate those affected, Delta Air Lines announced its offer of $30,000 per passenger. If all passengers accept this gesture, the airline will distribute approximately $2.3 million in total compensation. A spokesperson for Delta conveyed that "Delta Care Team representatives are telling customers this gesture has no strings attached and does not affect their rights." This assurance comes under the framework of the Montreal Convention, which allows passengers up to $200,000 in compensation for injuries on international flights.
Legal expert Erin Applebaum noted that initial payments are standard in such incidents and pointed out that passengers have two years to file lawsuits under the Montreal Convention if they choose to pursue additional claims. Applebaum anticipates that most of these cases will likely be settled outside of court within 12-18 months.
Thomas A. Demetrio, a notable attorney in aviation cases, remarked on Delta's swift response:
“There’s really no reason to dilly-dally.”
He further commented on the public relations aspect of Delta's offer:
“It’s a nice gesture, public relations-wise, too, on Delta’s behalf, to help people who may need immediate assistance financially.”
Demetrio also emphasized that compensation could cover various losses:
“The compensation requested would be for any medical expenses incurred, for any lost income because of one’s inability to work, because they’re mentally not ready to go back to work.”
