Air Canada Plane-Fire Truck Crash at LaGuardia Kills 2 Pilots
An Air Canada Express flight collided with a fire truck on Runway 4 at LaGuardia Airport shortly after landing on March 22, 2026. The crash killed both pilots and injured dozens of passengers and crew. The incident is under investigation by the NTSB and FAA.
Key Highlights
- Air Canada Express flight crashed into fire truck at LaGuardia.
- Two pilots died in the collision.
- Dozens of passengers and crew were injured.
- The incident occurred during landing on Runway 4.
- NTSB and FAA are investigating the runway incursion.
- Airport operations were significantly disrupted.
On the night of March 22, 2026, a tragic collision occurred at New York's LaGuardia Airport when Air Canada Express Flight 8646, a Bombardier CRJ-900 operated by Jazz Aviation, struck a Port Authority fire truck on Runway 4 shortly after its landing. The incident, which took place around 11:40 p.m. ET, resulted in the immediate deaths of the aircraft's pilot and co-pilot. The flight, originating from Montreal, was carrying 72 passengers and four crew members at the time of the crash. In total, 41 individuals, including passengers, crew members, and the two occupants of the fire truck, were transported to local hospitals for treatment of their injuries. While most of the injured were released shortly after, some sustained serious injuries. The fire truck involved was reportedly responding to a separate emergency concerning a United Airlines flight that had reported an unusual odor onboard. Air traffic control recordings from the moments leading up to the collision revealed that the fire truck had initially been cleared to cross Runway 4 but was then frantically instructed to stop by a controller just before the impact. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have launched a comprehensive investigation into the runway incursion to determine the exact cause and contributing factors. The crash led to significant disruptions at LaGuardia Airport, with one of its runways remaining closed for several days to allow for the investigation and the extensive cleanup of debris. Hundreds of flights were canceled or delayed as a result of the closure and the airport's reduced operational capacity. The NTSB has recovered the flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder, which are crucial for understanding the sequence of events. Aviation safety experts are examining the communication protocols between air traffic control, the aircraft, and the emergency vehicle. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about runway safety and the critical importance of clear communication and coordination in busy airport environments. The identities of the deceased pilots have been confirmed as Antoine Forest and Mackenzie Gunther. A flight attendant, Solange Tremblay, was ejected from the aircraft while still strapped to her seat but miraculously survived her injuries, which included multiple fractures. The investigation is expected to provide a detailed account of the communication breakdowns and operational procedures that may have led to this catastrophic event. The U.S. Department of Transportation and the Transportation Safety Board of Canada are collaborating on the investigation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened in the Air Canada flight incident at LaGuardia Airport?
Air Canada Express Flight 8646 collided with a fire truck on Runway 4 at LaGuardia Airport shortly after landing. The crash killed both pilots and injured dozens of passengers and crew. The incident is under investigation by the NTSB and FAA.
When and where did the LaGuardia Airport crash occur?
The incident occurred late on Sunday, March 22, 2026, around 11:40 p.m. ET, at New York's LaGuardia Airport.
How many people were killed and injured in the Air Canada flight crash?
Two pilots were killed in the collision. Forty-one people, including passengers, crew, and two fire truck occupants, were transported to hospitals, with most being released later.
What caused the collision between the Air Canada plane and the fire truck?
The collision is under investigation by the NTSB and FAA. Preliminary information suggests a runway incursion, with air traffic control audio indicating the fire truck was initially cleared to cross the runway before being told to stop. The fire truck was responding to a separate emergency involving a United Airlines flight.
What was the impact on LaGuardia Airport operations?
LaGuardia Airport experienced significant disruptions, with one runway remaining closed for several days to allow for the investigation and clearing of debris. Hundreds of flights were canceled or delayed.
