Delta crew flying plane that crashed in Toronto were properly certified, airline says
In the wake of the recent crash of Delta Air Lines Flight 4819, operated by its subsidiary Endeavor Air, at Toronto Pearson Airport, there have been online rumors and misleading assertions regarding the crew members aboard the flight. Delta Air Lines has pushed back against these rumors, clarifying the qualifications and experience of the captain and first officer.
The captain of Flight 4819 was hired by Mesaba Airlines in October 2007 and has served in various capacities, including as an active duty captain and in pilot training and safety roles. Mesaba Airlines later merged with Pinnacle Airlines in 2012 to form Endeavor Air. Delta Air Lines stated that assertions claiming the captain failed training events and was unable to secure a pilot position at Delta due to training failures are false.
The first officer on the flight was hired by Endeavor Air in January 2024 and has been flying with the airline since completing her training in April of that year. Delta confirmed that her flight experience time exceeds minimum federal requirements and refuted claims that she failed training events.
Both the captain and first officer are qualified and FAA certified for their positions, according to Delta Air Lines. The airline emphasized that the crew members’ training and experience meet all necessary standards.
The crash of Flight 4819 occurred as the plane was landing at Toronto Pearson Airport, resulting in the aircraft bursting into flames and flipping upside down. While there were no fatalities, 21 people sustained injuries. Delta Air Lines announced that all injured passengers have since been released from the hospital.
In response to the incident, Delta offered $30,000 to each of the victims aboard Flight 4819, with no strings attached. This means that passengers who accept the compensation are not precluded from pursuing legal action. The airline expressed gratitude for the care provided to the injured individuals and extended thanks to all involved in their treatment.
Delta CEO Ed Bastian addressed concerns about aviation safety in light of the crash, stating that budget cuts under the Trump administration did not have a negative impact on safety. Bastian clarified that the cuts primarily affected non-critical safety functions and did not compromise overall aviation safety.
As investigations into the crash continue, Delta Air Lines remains committed to transparency and accountability. The airline is cooperating with authorities to determine the cause of the incident and ensure the safety of its passengers and crew members.
