'Tragic accident' unfolds as travelers, employees witness deadly passenger jet incident

The incident involved an Airbus A350 operated by French Bee, a low-cost airline, according to the Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB). 

The employee, who was not identified by airport officials, worked for ground-handling company Samsic.

French Bee told Fox News Digital the accident occurred during ground operations ahead of the departure of Flight BF5761 to Paris-Orly.

The airline said the accident occurred during the aircraft's pushback operation, though the exact circumstances "remain to be established."

"The airline extends its deepest condolences to the individual's family and loved ones as well as its support to colleagues and all teams affected by this event," a spokesperson told Fox News Digital.

"French Bee is fully cooperating with the relevant Canadian authorities," the airline said, "and providing them with all necessary assistance to support the ongoing investigation."

In a statement, officials from Aéroports de Montréal (ADM) said they were "deeply saddened" by the incident.

ADM said it worked with its partners to provide assistance and support to employees and passengers "who witnessed this tragic accident."

ADM is also "cooperating with the authorities responsible for the investigation since the outset of their work," it said.

The Quebec coroner's office was also notified of the death and is investigating its causes and circumstances, CityNews reported.

ADM said it would not provide further comment out of respect for the victim and the victim's loved ones. It directed media inquiries to the authorities leading the investigation.

Fox News Digital reached out to Samsic and the TSB for additional information.

The fatal incident in Montreal comes just months after two other deadly incidents at major North American airports.