Employee killed in Montreal airport incident
An airport employee died after being struck by a plane on the tarmac at Montreal-Trudeau International Airport on Monday night. The worker, who was a signaller, was rushed to hospital but later died from their injuries.
The accident took place shortly before a scheduled French Bee flight to Paris. The Paris-based airline's flight had been due to depart at 6am but was delayed until after midnight, according to Radio Canada reports.
Witnesses describe the moments of the incident
A witness who spoke to Radio Canada described seeing a man go under the plane as it was moving, and reported that people on board were panicking. The witness added: "Many were screaming."
Preliminary local police information suggested the jet may have been reversing when it hit the worker, as reported by The Mirror.
Official statements and investigation
Yves Beauchamp, President and Chief Executive Officer of Montréal Airport, said: "The loss of a member of our airport community affects us all deeply. During this difficult time, our thoughts are with the employee's family, loved ones and colleagues, to whom we extend our heartfelt sympathy and sincere condolences."
A spokesperson for French Bee said on Monday: "The precise circumstances of the incident have not yet been established. French Bee is cooperating fully with Canadian authorities and the various parties involved to help establish the facts. The airline's immediate priority is caring for those affected by the incident and supporting its passengers and crew."
The incident has been passed to Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) for investigation.