New York’s LaGuardia Airport was shuttered Monday morning following a collision between an Air Canada Express plane and a Port Authority fire truck late Sunday night, resulting in the deaths of both pilots. The incident, which occurred shortly after the flight landed, has prompted investigations by multiple agencies and left dozens injured, disrupting travel plans for thousands.
The Air Canada Express flight AC8646, operated by Jazz Aviation, was arriving from Montreal, Canada, when it struck the fire truck on Runway 4 at approximately 11:40 p.m. Sunday, according to the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. The truck was responding to a separate, unrelated report of an “odor” on board a United flight at the time of the collision, officials stated. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and the Port Authority are all involved in the investigation.
“Sadly, the two pilots are confirmed deceased and notifications are being made by Air Canada’s care team at this time,” Port Authority Executive Director Kathryn Garcia told a news conference early Monday. NBC News reports that 72 passengers and four crew members were on board the flight. A total of 41 people were treated for injuries at local hospitals, with 32 released as of Monday morning. Two Port Authority police officers sustained broken limbs and are in stable condition, according to sources with knowledge of the investigation.
Preliminary reports indicate the aircraft, a Bombardier CRJ-900, was traveling at approximately 30 mph when the collision occurred. The BBC notes that emergency services responded immediately, and the airport was closed shortly after the incident. Photos from the scene show significant damage to the front of the plane, with debris scattered across the runway.
Investigation Underway, Airport Closure Extended
The NTSB dispatched a team to LaGuardia Airport to begin a comprehensive investigation into the cause of the collision. Investigators will examine flight data recorders, air traffic control communications, and the condition of both the aircraft and the fire truck. The FAA is also conducting a parallel investigation.
Officials have stated that LaGuardia Airport will remain closed until at least 2 p.m. Monday, as the investigation continues. The Associated Press reports that all departing flights have been delayed or canceled, causing widespread disruption to air travel. The airport had already been experiencing flight delays due to inclement weather last week, adding to the challenges.
Air Canada and Jazz Aviation Respond
Jazz Aviation, operating as Air Canada Express, confirmed the accident and stated that it is cooperating fully with investigators. The company reported that there were 76 people on board flight AC8646, including four crew members. Air Canada has activated its care team to provide support to passengers and their families.
According to flight tracking website Flightradar24, the aircraft was traveling at a speed of approximately 24 mph (39 km/h) at the time of impact. A preliminary passenger list shows 72 passengers and four crew members were on board.
What’s Next
The immediate priority remains the thorough investigation into the cause of the collision. Investigators will focus on determining whether any mechanical failures, human errors, or communication breakdowns contributed to the incident. The NTSB is expected to release preliminary findings within the coming weeks, with a final report likely to take several months. The reopening of LaGuardia Airport is contingent on the completion of the investigation and the clearance of the runway. The incident raises questions about safety protocols at airports and the coordination between aircraft and ground vehicles.
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