Air Canada Emergency Landing in Halifax: What Happened to Flight AC2259?

Summary Box:

AC2259’s Emergency Landing: A Terrifying Night in Halifax

Halifax, NS – An Air Canada Express flight, operated by PAL Airlines, made a dramatic emergency landing at Halifax Stanfield International Airport on Saturday, December 28, 2024, after experiencing a suspected landing gear malfunction. Flight AC2259, a Bombardier Q400 aircraft traveling from St. John’s, Newfoundland, touched down around 9:30 PM AST. Sparks flew as the aircraft skidded along the runway, with the left wing scraping the tarmac and igniting a small fire.

Evacuation and Aftermath: A Close Call

All 73 passengers and crew were swiftly evacuated using emergency slides, a testament to the crew’s training and the rapid response of emergency personnel. While initial reports indicated no major injuries, some passengers reportedly sustained minor injuries during the chaotic evacuation. The incident prompted a temporary closure of the airport, disrupting other flights and travel plans.

The Investigation: Searching for Answers

The Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) immediately launched an investigation into the incident. The TSB is likely examining the aircraft’s wreckage in Halifax, as well as debris discovered in St. John’s, Newfoundland, where the flight originated. This debris may suggest that the landing gear problem potentially developed prior to the aircraft’s arrival in Halifax. The TSB investigation will also analyze flight data recorder information (“black box”) and conduct interviews with passengers, crew, and airport personnel to determine the precise cause of the malfunction. Investigators will also explore weather conditions, pilot actions, and the aircraft’s maintenance history. Air Canada has stated its full cooperation with the investigation.

Passenger Accounts: Voices from the Scene

Numerous passengers shared their harrowing experiences on social media, describing the fear and chaos during the emergency landing. Their accounts paint a vivid picture of the tense moments as the plane skidded to a halt and the subsequent evacuation. These firsthand accounts provide valuable insights into the human impact of the incident.

Looking Ahead: Unanswered Questions and the Future of Aviation Safety

While the TSB investigation unfolds, questions linger. What specifically caused the landing gear to malfunction? Was it a mechanical failure, a maintenance oversight, or a combination of factors? The discovery of debris in St. John’s raises additional questions about the timeline of the malfunction. Could this incident lead to changes in aviation regulations, maintenance procedures, or pilot training? The TSB’s final report, while likely months away, will hopefully provide answers and recommendations for enhancing aviation safety.

FAQs: Addressing Key Concerns

• What was the flight number? AC2259
• What type of aircraft was it? A Bombardier Q400 (Dash 8-400) turboprop aircraft, operated by PAL Airlines on behalf of Air Canada Express.
• Were there any serious injuries? No major injuries have been reported, only minor ones.
• What caused the incident? The cause is currently under investigation by the TSB. A landing gear malfunction is suspected.
• What is the TSB? The Transportation Safety Board of Canada is an independent agency that investigates transportation occurrences to advance transportation safety.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the complexities of air travel. While commercial aviation maintains high safety standards, emergencies like this underscore the importance of continuous improvement and rigorous investigation. The information presented here reflects the current understanding of the incident, which may evolve as the TSB investigation progresses.