Sunwing Passengers Receive $30,000 Settlement Offers After Crash

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Post on Feb 22, 2025

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Sunwing Passengers Offered $30,000 Settlements After Runway Excursion: A Delayed Response Sparks Outrage

Toronto, ON – Passengers aboard a Sunwing Airlines flight that suffered a runway excursion at Toronto Pearson International Airport in December 2022 are receiving settlement offers of $30,000, sparking a wave of criticism and raising questions about the airline's response to the incident. The offer, revealed by several passengers to this reporter, comes months after the dramatic event that left many injured and deeply shaken. While the financial compensation is significant for some, many are voicing concerns about the adequacy of the amount and the seemingly protracted negotiation process.

The incident, which involved Sunwing flight WG657 from Cancun, Mexico, saw the Boeing 737-800 overrun the runway during landing in blizzard-like conditions on December 14, 2022. The aircraft skidded off the paved surface, causing substantial damage to the plane and resulting in numerous injuries among the passengers and crew. Reports at the time indicated injuries ranged from minor bruises and cuts to more serious spinal injuries and broken bones. Emergency responders were quickly on the scene, and passengers were evacuated from the aircraft.

Several passengers, speaking anonymously to protect ongoing negotiations, described the initial aftermath as chaotic and poorly managed. They reported a lack of clear communication from Sunwing staff regarding medical assistance, transportation, and lodging. This lack of immediate support exacerbated the stress and anxiety already caused by the unexpected and jarring landing.

The $30,000 settlement offers, delivered in recent weeks via legal counsel representing Sunwing, are being met with mixed reactions. While some passengers acknowledge the significant financial contribution, many feel the amount doesn't adequately reflect the physical and emotional trauma experienced. They cite ongoing medical expenses, lost wages, and the lasting psychological impact of the near-miss incident as reasons for contesting the proposed settlements.

"Thirty thousand dollars is a lot of money, sure," one passenger, who wished to remain anonymous, stated. "But it doesn't cover the therapy I'm needing, the ongoing pain management, or the fear of flying I now have. It feels like Sunwing is trying to sweep this under the rug."

This sentiment is echoed by others who are seeking independent legal counsel to explore options beyond the initial offer. Several passenger advocacy groups are also expressing concern, highlighting the need for a more transparent and compassionate approach from Sunwing Airlines. The delay in offering settlements, the disparity in injuries and the uniform nature of the offer despite varying degrees of injury, are key points of contention.

Sunwing Airlines has not yet released an official public statement regarding the settlement offers or the ongoing legal processes. Requests for comment from the airline have remained unanswered at the time of publication.

The incident highlights the critical need for airlines to have robust emergency response plans and effective communication strategies in place to effectively manage such situations. It also underscores the importance of fair and equitable compensation for passengers who suffer injuries and emotional distress as a result of airline accidents. As the legal processes unfolds, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential risks involved in air travel and the responsibility airlines have to ensure passenger safety and well-being. This story will be updated as more information becomes available.