A long-running legal chapter stemming from a terrifying aviation incident in Nova Scotia has been closed. A multi-million dollar class-action settlement has been finalized for passengers aboard Air Canada Flight 624, which crash-landed at Halifax Stanfield International Airport nearly a decade ago.
The Incident: A Harrowing Early-Morning Landing
The events unfolded in the pre-dawn hours of Sunday, March 29, 2015. The Air Canada flight, arriving from Toronto, encountered severe weather as it approached the Halifax airport. During its final approach, the aircraft struck power lines, causing it to land roughly 200 metres short of the runway.
The impact sheared off the plane's landing gear and caused significant damage to the fuselage. The scene, captured in images by The Canadian Press, showed the crippled Airbus A320 surrounded by emergency responders. Remarkably, despite the violent landing and the destruction of the aircraft, all 133 passengers and 5 crew members on board survived. Twenty-five people were treated for non-life-threatening injuries.
The Aftermath and Investigation
In the wake of the crash, a comprehensive investigation was launched by the Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB). The probe examined factors including pilot decision-making, airline procedures, and air traffic control guidance during the stormy conditions. The incident raised serious questions about safety protocols for approaches in adverse weather.
Parallel to the official safety investigation, a class-action lawsuit was filed on behalf of the passengers, who endured not only the physical trauma of the crash but also significant psychological distress. The lawsuit alleged negligence and sought compensation for the ordeal.
Resolution: A Confidential Settlement Reached
After years of legal proceedings, the parties involved have reached a resolution. While the exact financial terms of the multi-million dollar settlement remain confidential, as is common in such cases, it was approved by the court and brings the class-action suit to a conclusion. The settlement was officially reached in December 2025.
This agreement spares the plaintiffs a protracted and public trial, providing them with compensation and a measure of closure. For Air Canada, it resolves a significant liability stemming from one of the most notable incidents in its recent history.
The 2015 Halifax crash landing remains a pivotal event in Canadian aviation safety, highlighting the ever-present risks of air travel and the complex journey toward accountability and healing for those who experience such traumatic events firsthand.
