Fresh York’s LaGuardia Airport experienced significant disruption Monday after an Air Canada flight struck a Port Authority aircraft rescue and firefighting vehicle on Runway 4, leading to a complete ground stop and widespread flight cancellations. The incident, which occurred around 11:40 p.m. Sunday, prompted a massive emergency response and is under investigation.
The collision involved a Jazz Aviation flight operating on behalf of Air Canada, originating from Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport and a Port Authority fire truck responding to a separate incident, according to officials. A preliminary passenger manifest indicates 72 passengers and four crew members were aboard the Air Canada Express CRJ-900 jet. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) initially issued a ground stop for all flights at LaGuardia, and later indicated the airport could remain closed until 2 p.m. Local time (1800 GMT), though that timeline remains subject to change.
Details of the Collision
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey confirmed the incident, stating the aircraft struck the firefighting vehicle as it crossed the runway. The New York City Fire Department responded to reports of a plane colliding with a vehicle at 11:38 p.m. Sunday. Initial reports indicate at least two Port Authority police officers, members of the Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighter Unit, sustained serious injuries. According to the New York Post, at least four firefighters were also injured.
A female flight attendant was ejected from the aircraft during the collision and was rescued by Port Authority police, receiving medical attention at a local hospital. Sources indicate the flight was carrying a group of Orthodox Jews from the New York area. The extent of injuries to passengers and crew is currently being evaluated.
Airport Closure and Travel Disruptions
The FAA has issued a ground stop, halting all flights into and out of LaGuardia Airport. New York’s emergency management authority warned residents to anticipate cancellations, road closures, traffic delays, and the presence of emergency personnel near the airport in Queens. Travelers are advised to leverage alternate routes and check with their airlines for updated flight information. The disruption is expected to have a ripple effect on air travel throughout the region.
Images circulating on social media, including a video posted to TikTok (via the New York Post), show the front of the commuter plane damaged and tilted on the runway. Fire trucks were seen lined up outside the airport in response to the emergency.
Investigation Underway
Authorities have launched a full investigation into the cause of the collision. The New York Police Department confirmed the incident but has not yet released further details. The FAA is also conducting an investigation to determine the circumstances leading up to the accident. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is expected to join the investigation, though that has not been officially confirmed as of this writing.
The incident at LaGuardia underscores the complex safety challenges inherent in airport operations. The investigation will likely focus on factors such as runway visibility, communication protocols, and the positioning of emergency vehicles.
As of Monday afternoon, LaGuardia Airport remains closed. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Passengers are encouraged to monitor airline websites and the FAA website for the latest travel advisories.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
