An unexpected incident unfolded on December 13, when a baggage handler became trapped in the cargo hold of an Air Canada Rouge Airbus A319. The aircraft was preparing for departure from Toronto, Ontario, to Moncton, New Brunswick, when the situation came to light just after the plane had begun to taxi.
The flight, designated AC1502, was scheduled to leave at 14:00 local time and to arrive in Moncton at approximately 17:03. However, delays had already pushed back its departure time, with boarding starting around 18:30. As the aircraft began to push back from the gate, passengers reported hearing banging and screaming noises coming from the cargo hold, prompting the pilot to halt the flight’s progress.
Passenger Response and Extended Delays
Following the initial reports, the aircraft remained stationary on the apron for over an hour. The captain eventually addressed the passengers through the loudspeaker, confirming that a baggage handler was trapped in the hold. This revelation led to a further delay, as the aircraft was required to stay put until the situation was resolved.
Passengers were ultimately disembarked at approximately 20:22, as the pilots had reached their permitted duty hours. They waited in the terminal for nearly two hours before being boarded onto the aircraft again. Unfortunately, just as hopes rose for a timely departure, the Airbus A319 encountered a mechanical issue, necessitating additional repairs.
At around 23:00, with new pilots on board, passengers learned that the aircraft was still grounded due to the mechanical problem. By 23:15, they were deboarded once more and informed that a replacement aircraft was on its way.
Flight Cancellation and Safety Concerns
By 23:50, the replacement aircraft arrived at the gate, yet by 01:50 the following day, the flight was officially cancelled. Passengers were rebooked on a later flight, which finally took off on December 14, delivering them to Greater Moncton Roméo LeBlanc International Airport (YQM) approximately 24 hours after their original schedule.
Fortunately, the baggage handler was not harmed during the incident and was reportedly in the cargo hold for the entire duration of the 90-minute flight. Had the situation gone unnoticed, the individual would have faced extreme risks, including dangerously low temperatures, insufficient oxygen, and significant pressure changes, which could have resulted in serious health consequences.
Air Canada operates regular non-stop services from Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) to Moncton, with additional competition from Porter Airlines and the low-cost carrier Flair, which is set to enter the market in mid-2026. Moncton, the largest city in New Brunswick, serves as a key gateway to the region’s popular tourist attractions, including the Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park.
This incident highlights the importance of stringent safety protocols in the aviation industry, ensuring that all personnel are accounted for before takeoff. As investigations continue, Air Canada has grounded the aircraft involved in this incident for further inspection.
