Halifax Airport Flight Suspensions: Latest Updates on December 28 Incident

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Written By Victor Mullen

Summary: An Air Canada Express flight experienced a landing gear malfunction upon landing at Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ) at approximately 9:30 PM AST on December 28, 2024. All 73 passengers and crew were safely evacuated, with some reporting minor injuries. One runway has reopened, but delays and cancellations are expected. The Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) is investigating.

Live Updates

UPDATE 11:00 PM AST, December 28, 2024: All passengers and crew have been safely transported to the terminal. Airport officials confirm one runway (05/23) has reopened.

UPDATE 7:00 AM AST, December 29, 2024: Limited flight operations have resumed, but significant delays and cancellations persist. Passengers are urged to check with their airlines for updated flight information.

UPDATE 10:00 AM AST, December 30, 2024: The TSB investigation is ongoing. Air Canada has stated they are awaiting the release of the aircraft by the TSB before passenger belongings can be returned.

Incident Overview

An Air Canada Express flight (AC2259), operated by PAL Airlines, arriving from St. John’s, Newfoundland, experienced a landing gear malfunction upon touchdown at approximately 9:30 PM AST on Saturday, December 28, 2024. The Bombardier Q400 aircraft, carrying 73 passengers and crew, was unable to taxi to the terminal.

Impact on Travelers

The incident resulted in the initial closure of both runways at Halifax Stanfield International Airport. While one runway has since reopened, the disruption has caused significant delays and cancellations for flights scheduled to arrive and depart from YHZ. Four incoming flights were diverted to other airports. Passengers are strongly advised to confirm their flight status directly with their airline and anticipate potential delays.

Timeline of Events

  • 9:30 PM AST: Air Canada Express flight AC2259 experiences a landing gear malfunction upon landing.
  • 9:45 PM AST: Emergency responders arrive at the scene.
  • 10:15 PM AST: Passengers and crew are evacuated from the aircraft via bus.
  • 10:45 PM AST: One runway reopens.

The Investigation

The Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) has launched an investigation to determine the cause of the landing gear malfunction. Several factors will likely be considered, including aircraft maintenance records, weather conditions, and pilot actions. It’s important to avoid speculation and await the official TSB findings.

What Passengers Should Do

  • Check flight status: Contact your airline directly or use online flight tracking services like FlightAware for real-time updates.
  • Contact your airline: For rebooking options or other travel-related inquiries. Contact information for Air Canada can be found on their website.
  • Monitor Halifax Airport’s website: Visit the Halifax Stanfield International Airport website for further updates on airport operations.

Official Statements

Air Canada has released a statement confirming the incident and expressing their commitment to passenger safety. They are cooperating fully with the TSB investigation and are working to assist affected passengers. You can find updates and statements from Air Canada on their newsroom website.

Additional Information

More information about the TSB investigation can be found on the TSB website.

This situation remains fluid. We will continue to provide updates as they become available.

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