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In a shocking incident that has raised serious concerns about airport safety protocols, an advocacy group is demanding an investigation into the emergency response at Halifax Stanfield International Airport. This call comes after a rough landing on December 28, 2024, involving an Air Canada Express flight operated by PAL Airlines, which resulted in an engine fire and the evacuation of 73 passengers and four crew members.
Passenger accounts highlight emergency response failures
Steve Mahar, a passenger on the flight, described the terrifying experience, emphasizing the inadequate management of the situation post-landing. Mahar recounted how he had to jump approximately four-and-a-half feet to exit the aircraft due to the absence of an emergency platform.
He expressed frustration over the lack of immediate assistance, stating, “My parents are there. They’re seniors. They’re cold. There’s children there that are cold.” Mahar criticized the airport’s response, suggesting that basic provisions like blankets should have been readily available for vulnerable passengers.
Investigation reveals tire blowout as the cause
The Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) released a preliminary report attributing the incident to a blown tire on the left side of the De Havilland Dash 8 aircraft. The tire failure occurred during takeoff from St.
John’s International Airport, leading to a series of mechanical failures upon landing in Halifax. The report indicated that the blown tire caused a vibration that compromised the landing gear, ultimately resulting in a fire in the left engine.
Advocates push for improved emergency planning
In light of these events, the group Advocates for Safer Airports in Canada is urging the TSB to expand its investigation to include a thorough examination of the airport’s emergency response plan. Chris Bussey, the chair of the advocacy group, highlighted the lack of oversight in emergency planning at Canadian airports, stating, “There is no oversight of an emergency planning within airports in Canada.
The structure that they’re using is putting passengers at risk.” Bussey’s comments underscore a growing concern that current Canadian aviation regulations do not meet international safety standards.
Halifax Stanfield International Airport has not provided comments regarding the incident or the calls for investigation. Meanwhile, Wagners, a Halifax law firm, has reported that it is evaluating potential representation for several passengers who may pursue a class-action lawsuit against the airline and the airport.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of rigorous safety protocols and emergency preparedness in the aviation industry. As the investigation unfolds, it is crucial for stakeholders to prioritize passenger safety and ensure that such incidents do not recur in the future.
