2 pilots dead after Air Canada plane collides with truck at LaGuardia airport
Two Pilots Killed in LaGuardia Airport Plane-Truck Collision
Sunday night saw a tragic accident at New York’s LaGuardia Airport, where an Air Canada flight collided with a fire truck on the runway, resulting in the deaths of two pilots and injuries to over a dozen individuals. The incident occurred involving Air Canada Flight 8646, which had just landed with 72 passengers and four crew members, and a Port Authority fire-rescue vehicle responding to a separate issue on a different flight.
Collision and Initial Response
The accident took place around 11:40 p.m. as the aircraft, a Jazz Aviation-operated Bombardier CRJ-900 twin-jet, was moving at approximately 30 mph following its landing. According to preliminary reports, the fire truck was en route to address an unrelated odor complaint on a United Airlines flight. Audio from air traffic control indicated a controller had authorized the vehicle to cross the runway before issuing a stop command, with one controller admitting, “I messed up,” in the recording.
“I messed up,” one air traffic controller is heard saying on the recording.
A video shared on social media captured the aftermath, showing a passenger jet with its cockpit elevated and the front fuselage severely damaged. The collision on LaGuardia’s Runway 4 has added to growing concerns within the aviation sector, as the airport was closed until at least 2 p.m. on Monday.
Investigation and Official Statements
Transport Secretary Sean Duffy announced his visit to LaGuardia, stating that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), and Port Authority are conducting investigations. Duffy highlighted the FAA’s focus on potential staffing issues in air traffic control as a contributing factor.
Port Authority Executive Director Kathryn Garcia reported that 41 people were hospitalized, with some suffering serious injuries. So far, 32 have been discharged, including two officers with broken limbs who are in stable condition, as confirmed by sources close to the probe.
Aftermath and Regional Impact
LaGuardia’s closure disrupted travel plans, while a brief ground stop at Newark International Airport further compounded regional delays. The FAA noted the plane was operated by Air Canada Express, also known as Jazz Aviation, from Montreal. NTSB has dispatched a “go team” to the scene and will send a full investigative unit later.
Families were advised to contact Air Canada for reunification efforts, as several passengers were separated during the evacuation. The NYPD urged residents to steer clear of the area and anticipate local disruptions due to closed streets and airport exits.
Credits
Jonathan Dienst serves as chief justice contributor for NBC News and chief investigative reporter for WNBC-TV in New York. Jay Blackman is an NBC News producer covering transportation, space, medical, and consumer topics. Dennis Romero is a breaking news reporter for NBC News Digital. Tom Costello is an NBC News correspondent based in Washington, D.C.