Incident Response
What role does video play in studying aviation accidents and investigating whether an aircraft functioned correctly?
Video has become an invaluable tool for accident investigators, serving as what Gregory Feith calls 'electronic witnesses' that provide unbiased factual data. Unlike human witnesses who might confuse details, videos don't lie or fabricate stories - they show exactly what happened. In earlier days of aviation investigation, NTSB relied heavily on witness statements and had to separate fact from fiction, but modern video evidence offers clear documentation of events. For incidents like the Delta Airlines landing, video analysis allows investigators to examine crucial details about aircraft performance and equipment function, providing objective evidence that significantly enhances the investigation process.
Watch clip answer (00:50m)
CBS News
28:13 - 29:03
How did first responders handle the Delta flight crash in Toronto?
Despite the Delta flight flipping upside down during landing in Toronto - categorized as a 'worst case scenario' - the emergency response was described as a 'best case scenario.' Airport emergency workers immediately jumped into action, helping passengers evacuate from the overturned aircraft. The quick response was praised by Deborah Flint, the CEO, who highlighted how these first responders acted decisively on a moment's notice. Their rapid intervention was crucial in ensuring all 80 passengers survived what could have been a catastrophic incident.
Watch clip answer (01:03m)
CBS News
02:03 - 03:07
Is flying still safe despite recent high-profile aircraft incidents?
According to experts consulted in the aftermath of the Delta flight incident at Toronto International Airport, commercial flying remains unequivocally the safest mode of transportation available. This view was strongly endorsed by airline executives, who emphasized this point despite the recent series of high-profile aircraft incidents making headlines. Aviation experts maintain that while these incidents naturally cause anxiety among travelers, the statistical and empirical evidence confirms flying's outstanding safety record. Even professionals covering such incidents acknowledge having personal concerns about flying, but ultimately recognize that the comprehensive data continues to support commercial aviation's reputation as the safest travel method available.
Watch clip answer (00:56m)
CBS News
04:53 - 05:50
How unusual is it for a plane to land upside down with everyone surviving?
It's almost unheard of for a commercial aircraft to land upside down with landing gear in the air and have all passengers survive. According to Virginia Tech Professor Ella Atkins, such an occurrence is extremely unusual and remarkable. The fact that everyone aboard the Delta flight at Toronto International Airport survived to tell their stories is extraordinary. Despite this rare incident, Professor Atkins emphasizes that commercial flying remains very safe. She stresses that no one should hesitate to travel by air, as accidents during landing for commercial transport aircraft are extremely uncommon, and this incident should not deter people from catching their next flight.
Watch clip answer (00:39m)
CBS News
06:06 - 06:45
What happened to the Delta flight at Toronto International Airport?
A Delta flight from Minneapolis flipped upside down while landing at Toronto International Airport yesterday afternoon. The plane completely overturned, ending up on its back on the runway. According to officials in Canada, an investigation is currently underway to determine the cause of this unusual incident. Despite the severity of the accident, all 80 passengers on board survived the crash. First responders were able to safely evacuate everyone from the overturned aircraft, which represents a remarkable outcome given the dramatic nature of the plane flipping completely upside down during landing.
Watch clip answer (00:26m)CBS News
00:42 - 01:08
What happened to the Delta flight that landed in Toronto?
A Delta flight flipped over after landing in Toronto in what was described as a 'Miracle on the Runway.' Exclusive video captured the chaotic moments inside the cabin as passengers realized their dire situation, with one heard exclaiming "It's upside down" following the crash landing. Despite the severity of the accident, emergency crews responded within minutes to extinguish a fire at the scene. The incident appears to have occurred during adverse weather conditions, as the report mentions a cross-country storm affecting the area. Remarkably, the outcome suggests all passengers survived what could have been a catastrophic event.
Watch clip answer (00:25m)
ABC News
00:01 - 00:26