After a 39-year-old ground handler tragically died at Montreal airport, a passenger on a Paris-bound flight shared the harrowing experience of witnessing the fatal pushback incident on his in-flight screen. Matthieu Douvenou recounted how he saw the worker stumble just before the aircraft backed up, causing a sudden shock. The victim, identified as Oscar Robayo by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), was a ramp agent with Samsic, a company providing services at the airport.
The incident involved a French Bee airline plane scheduled for a Paris departure at 6 p.m. ET on Monday. French Bee stated that the exact circumstances of the accident during the pushback operation are still under investigation. Emergency responders were deployed around 7:30 p.m., and despite efforts to save Robayo, he succumbed to his injuries after being taken to the hospital.
Describing the event as a “tragic workplace accident,” the airport authority expressed deep sorrow over the loss, emphasizing the impact on the airport community. The flight, initially slated for Sunday departure, was reportedly postponed. Passengers onboard felt a significant impact as the plane shifted, with Douvenou highlighting the distressing moments and the presence of external cameras that captured the incident.
While still in Montreal, Douvenou shared his ongoing trauma and loss of confidence in flying, reflecting on the profound effect of the experience. The Transportation Safety Board of Canada acknowledged the incident and initiated an investigation, directing media inquiries to the airport. The federal Labour Program is also conducting an investigation into Samsic Assistance Canada Inc., focusing on health and safety compliance.
Cooperating with authorities, the airport and French Bee affirmed their support for those affected by the tragedy and vowed to assist in the investigative process. The community mourns the loss of Robayo and strives to understand the circumstances leading to this devastating event.