New Details Revealed on the Crew of the Delta Plane Crash in Toronto
Following the recent aircraft crash at Toronto Pearson Airport, Delta Air Lines has released fresh information regarding the crew members of the ill-fated Flight 4819, operated by its subsidiary, Endeavor Air. The airline categorically dismissed online speculations and "unfounded claims" about the pilot and co-pilot's credentials.
The captain, who had been employed by Mesaba Airlines since October 2007, held a variety of roles including active duty captain, pilot training, and safety responsibilities. In 2012, Mesaba merged with Pinnacle Airlines, leading to the formation of Endeavor Air. The airline reiterated that claims of the captain failing training events or not securing a position at Delta Air Lines due to such failures are entirely false.
Endeavor Air welcomed the first officer to its ranks in January 2024. Having completed her training by April, she has been flying for the airline ever since. Delta confirmed that her flight experience surpasses federal minimum requirements and refuted any allegations of her failing training events.
The flight from Minneapolis to Toronto ended in a catastrophic crash at Pearson Airport on February 17, 2025. The aircraft burst into flames upon landing before flipping over. The images of the capsized plane quickly spread across the internet. Thankfully, no lives were lost in the accident, but 21 people sustained injuries. As of Thursday, all injured passengers have been discharged from the hospital, according to Delta.
Delta CEO Ed Bastian expressed gratitude towards everyone who provided care to the injured passengers over the past few days and confirmed that both the captain and the co-pilot are fit and FAA certified for their roles.
In the aftermath of the crash, the airline has decided to offer $30,000 to each individual aboard Flight 4819, which included 76 passengers and four crew members. Delta clarified that the compensation comes with "no strings attached," indicating that recipients could still potentially pursue legal action if they choose.
In response to criticisms suggesting a connection between the Trump administration’s budget cuts and aviation safety, Bastian dismissed these claims in a CBS Mornings interview. He pointed out that while the cuts might raise questions, they affected only 300 of the over 50,000 FAA employees, none of whom were in critical safety functions.