Delta Offers US$30,000 to Each Passenger After Toronto Plane Crash

Delta Air Lines is offering US$30,000 (£23,792) to each passenger aboard a plane that crash-landed in Toronto on Monday, with all passengers surviving the incident.

The aircraft skidded along the runway in flames before flipping over and coming to a stop upside down. Passengers were left in awe as most walked away without injuries. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

The flight, which originated from Minneapolis in the US, had 76 passengers and 4 crew members on board. Delta confirmed that the compensation offer is unconditional and does not affect passengers’ legal rights.

Toronto law firm Rochon Genova has been retained by some of the affected passengers and their families. Lawyer Vincent Genova stated that they are seeking a “timely and fair resolution” as some of the passengers sustained serious injuries that required hospital treatment.

Mr. Genova clarified that the $30,000 compensation is an “advance” to assist with immediate financial needs, and it may be deducted from any future claims settlements.

This type of payment is not unprecedented. In 2013, Asiana Airlines offered $10,000 to passengers involved in a plane crash in San Francisco, and last year, Alaska Airlines gave $1,500 to passengers after a mid-air incident.

Following the crash, the crew and emergency responders were praised for their quick and efficient actions in rescuing passengers. The plane’s safety features have also been credited for preventing fatalities.

All 21 passengers who were taken to the hospital had been discharged by Thursday morning, according to Delta.

Delta’s CEO, Ed Bastian, told CBS News that the flight crew acted “heroically,” but added that such responses were to be expected, as “safety is embedded into our system.” The airline continues to provide support to those affected by the crash.

Experts reviewing the incident suggested several possible causes, including harsh winter weather and a rapid descent. One passenger described a “forceful event” and the sound of “concrete and metal” during impact, while another said passengers were left hanging upside down in their seats “like bats.”