Additional Coverage:
- Delta releases new information about captain, first officer flying plane that crashed in Toronto (foxnews.com)
Delta Air Lines is defending the crew of Flight 4819, operated by subsidiary Endeavor Air, following online rumors about their qualifications after Monday’s crash landing in Toronto.
The airline insists that both the captain and first officer were fully qualified and certified. Delta stated the captain, hired in 2007, had extensive experience, including pilot training and safety roles. They directly refuted claims that he had failed training events.
The first officer, hired in January and flying since April, also met all requirements, with flight experience exceeding federal minimums. Delta also denied rumors about her training record.
Flight 4819 crashed and flipped while landing at Toronto Pearson Airport on Monday. While thankfully there were no fatalities, 21 people suffered injuries. Delta confirmed the last injured passenger was released from the hospital on Thursday.
Delta CEO Ed Bastian expressed gratitude for the recovery of those injured. The airline is offering $30,000 to each of the 80 passengers and crew members involved. This payment comes with no conditions and doesn’t preclude legal action.
Bastian also addressed concerns about aviation safety and budget cuts, stating that cuts were to non-critical areas and did not impact safety.