A terrifying incident unfolded today at Toronto Pearson International Airport when two planes collided on the tarmac, resulting in a massive fire that sent plumes of thick, black smoke into the sky and sparked panic among passengers and crew. The crash occurred during what should have been routine ground maneuvers, but quickly escalated into a full-scale emergency.
According to initial reports, one of the planes, a departing WestJet aircraft, was taxiing toward the runway when it collided with a stationary Sunwing Airlines plane parked at a gate. The impact was sudden and violent, causing an immediate explosion and a fire that rapidly engulfed both aircraft’s fuselage. Firefighters and emergency responders rushed to the scene within minutes, battling the intense flames and evacuating passengers and crew.
Fortunately, quick action by airport staff and emergency personnel helped prevent an even greater catastrophe. All passengers on the WestJet plane were evacuated through emergency slides, while the Sunwing plane was reportedly empty, as it was being prepared for boarding. Despite the chaotic scene, no fatalities have been reported, though several people sustained minor injuries during the evacuation.
Eyewitnesses described the incident as a scene of chaos and fear, with people running and screaming amid the growing inferno. “It was like something out of a movie,” one passenger recounted. “We just heard this loud crash and felt the plane shake, then saw flames everywhere.”
Authorities are investigating the cause of the collision, looking into possible factors such as communication errors, mechanical failures, or human error. Meanwhile, flights in and out of Pearson Airport have been temporarily suspended or delayed, causing significant disruptions for travelers.
In a statement, Toronto Pearson Airport expressed relief that the situation was brought under control quickly, but emphasized that safety remains the top priority. As investigations continue, the airport community remains on edge, thankful that today’s accident did not result in a greater loss of life.