Airfrance Airbus Bursts Into Flames

Air France Flight 358 from Paris carrying 297 passengers and 12 crew members skidded off a Pearson International Airport runway on Tuesday while landing in a thunderstorm, sliding into a ravine and breaking into pieces.

A spokesman for AirFrance said “All passengers and crew members were able to clear the aircraft before the fire broke out. Twenty-two passengers suffering minor injuries are treated in five area hospitals,” the airline said.

Passenger information center for family or friends of those who may have been on board flight AF 358 may be obtained by calling either 0 800 800 812 (for those calling from France) or (011) 33 1 56 93 10 00 (for those calling from North America and outside France). The airline established the two numbers immediately after the accident.

Air France said it is also providing whatever material and psychological assistance to passengers who might need it. “As soon as possible, Air France will provide transportation back home to those who want it. Also, Air France will compensate all passengers.”

An investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the accident, according to Air France.

The accident marked the first time an Airbus A340 had crashed in its 13 years of commercial service.

3 September 2005