Amazon Cargo Jet Overruns Runway at Vancouver Airport; No Injuries
A cargo jet carrying Amazon packages overran a runway at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) in the early hours of November 19, 2024, according to airport officials. The incident occurred at approximately 1:45 a.m. local time when a Cargojet flight operating a Prime Air aircraft exceeded the eastern boundary of the airport’s North runway. All three crew members exited the aircraft safely, and no injuries were reported.
The aircraft involved is a Boeing 767-338 with the registration C-GAZI. Departing from John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport (YHM) at 12:07 a.m., the flight was en route to Vancouver. Flight data from FlightRadar24 indicates that the jet traveled 500 meters beyond the runway’s end before coming to a halt.
Just before the overrun, the crew reported a “flight control problem” involving the leading-edge slats, which are essential for flight at lower speeds during takeoff and landing. This issue was highlighted by local media outlet CityNews Vancouver. The malfunction likely contributed to the aircraft skidding off the runway.
As a result of the incident, the North runway at YVR remains closed, affecting flight operations and schedules. However, the airport’s South runway continues to accommodate arriving and departing flights. Airport officials have advised passengers to verify their flight status before heading to the airport.
“We encourage passengers to check with their airlines for current flight schedules and status before heading to YVR,” stated airport representatives.
The Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) has assumed primary responsibility for the incident site. Recovery efforts will commence once the TSB releases control. According to an update on the airport’s website, over 50 individuals from various organizations—including YVR Airport, the TSB, Cargojet, and Air Canada’s heavy aircraft removal crew—are collaborating on a strategy to remove the aircraft from its current position.
The airport has not provided a specific timeline for the runway’s reopening but anticipates that the North runway will remain closed for approximately 48 hours. This closure may lead to further disruptions, and travelers are urged to stay informed by checking with their airlines for the most recent updates.
The incident underscores the critical importance of aircraft maintenance and the effective handling of in-flight emergencies. While the exact cause of the flight control problem is still under investigation, the safe evacuation of the crew highlights the effectiveness of emergency protocols.
Cargojet and Prime Air have yet to release detailed statements regarding the event. The findings of the TSB’s investigation will be crucial in understanding the factors that led to the incident and in preventing similar occurrences in the future.
Passengers and those planning to visit the airport are encouraged to monitor official communications for updates. Information will be made available through the airport’s website and social media channels as the situation develops.
This event marks a significant incident at one of Canada’s busiest airports, emphasizing the need for continual vigilance in aviation safety and the rapid response of emergency services when unforeseen issues arise.
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