A ground handling employee at Montréal–Trudeau International Airport (YUL) died on Monday evening following an accident involving a French Bee aircraft. The incident occurred during pushback maneuvers as the jet prepared for departure to Paris.
Emergency services responded to the scene at approximately 7:30 PM. The victim, an employee of ground services provider Samsic, was transported to a local hospital where they were pronounced dead.
While local police noted that early indications suggest the aircraft was reversing at the time of the collision, the matter is not being treated as a criminal investigation. Responsibility for the inquiry has been transferred to Employment and Social Development Canada. This body oversees federally regulated workplaces and will examine the circumstances surrounding the event to ensure compliance with safety protocols.
Airport authorities are cooperating fully with the investigation. The fatality has renewed attention on ramp safety procedures and the inherent risks associated with high-tempo ground operations. YUL officials confirmed that while the incident caused brief delays, regular service at the airport resumed shortly thereafter. Further details regarding the safety investigation are expected as federal authorities continue their review.