Air Canada Flight 2259 Catches Fire During Landing at Halifax Airport
A startling incident unfolded at Halifax Stanfield International Airport when Air Canada Flight 2259 experienced a suspected landing gear malfunction during its landing. The flight, which departed from St. John’s, Newfoundland, and carried 73 passengers, encountered significant turbulence as it approached the runway. Passengers reported flames and smoke on the left side of the aircraft, which understandably caused panic among those onboard.
One passenger, Nikki Valentine, described the dramatic moments, stating, “The plane shook quite a bit, and we started seeing fire on the left side of the plane. Smoke started coming in through the windows.” Despite the tense situation, no injuries were reported—a testament to the swift and professional actions of the crew and emergency responders.
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The plane, a De Havilland DHC-8-402 operated by PAL Airlines on behalf of Air Canada, skidded on the runway for a considerable distance before coming to a stop. Due to the damage, the aircraft was unable to taxi to the terminal, and passengers were evacuated via bus. Air Canada promptly expressed gratitude for the passengers’ understanding, acknowledging the unsettling nature of the incident.
Following the emergency landing, one of Halifax’s two runways was temporarily closed for about 90 minutes to ensure the safety of other flights. This led to several flight diversions, cancellations, and delays, as confirmed by airport spokesperson Tiffany Chase.
The Transportation Safety Board of Canada is now investigating the cause of the suspected landing gear failure. Until their assessment is complete, Air Canada has refrained from speculating on the incident’s origins, underscoring the importance of respecting the investigative process.
This event is a sobering reminder of the complexities of aviation safety and the critical importance of stringent checks and responsive emergency protocols. While the outcome was fortunate, with all passengers unharmed, the incident highlights the unpredictable challenges that can arise in air travel.
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