Air Canada Jet Collides with Fire Truck at LaGuardia, 2 Killed

NEW YORK — A collision between an Air Canada Express regional jet and a fire truck at LaGuardia Airport late Sunday night resulted in the deaths of both pilots and injuries to dozens, prompting a full airport closure that is expected to last at least until this afternoon. The incident, which occurred around 11:40 p.m. On Sunday, March 22, is under investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).

According to Port Authority officials, 41 people were injured in the collision, with 32 having been treated and released from local hospitals as of early Monday morning. Nine remain hospitalized, some with serious injuries. The aircraft, a Jazz Aviation flight operated on behalf of Air Canada (Flight AC8646), was carrying 72 passengers and four crew members from Montreal.

The Port Authority fire truck was responding to an unrelated report of an “odor” on a United Airlines flight when the collision occurred on Runway 4. Initial reports indicate the fire truck was cleared to cross the runway shortly before the incident, prompting a frantic attempt by air traffic control to halt its progress. Audio recordings reveal a controller stating, “Stop, Truck 1. Stop,” followed by efforts to divert an incoming aircraft.

Airport Closure and Investigation

LaGuardia Airport is closed to all flights and is not expected to reopen before 2 p.m. Today, March 23, though authorities have warned the closure could be extended. Road entrances to the airport have reopened, but motorists are advised to expect delays. The NTSB will lead the investigation, examining the sequence of events and factors contributing to the collision. Investigators will likely focus on the communication between air traffic control and the fire truck, as well as the procedures for runway access.

Air Canada has established a helpline for friends and family concerned about passengers on board Flight AC8646, at 1-800-961-7099. The airline has not yet released detailed information regarding passenger support or potential travel disruptions beyond the airport closure.

Broader Implications and Safety Concerns

This incident raises immediate questions about runway safety protocols and communication procedures at LaGuardia Airport. While collisions between aircraft and ground vehicles are relatively rare, they can have catastrophic consequences. The FAA will also be reviewing the incident, and it is likely to lead to a broader assessment of safety procedures at airports nationwide.

LaGuardia Airport, which handled over 16.7 million passengers in 2024, is currently undergoing a multi-billion dollar renovation project aimed at modernizing its facilities and improving operational efficiency. However, the airport’s complex layout and high volume of traffic continue to present challenges for air traffic controllers and ground personnel. The NTSB investigation will likely scrutinize whether the ongoing construction played any role in the incident.

The incident comes as the aviation industry continues to grapple with staffing shortages and increased demand for air travel. While air traffic controllers are not directly affected by the current partial government shutdown, past shutdowns have impacted their staffing levels, raising concerns about potential safety risks. The FAA grounded all planes at the airport following the collision, highlighting the severity of the situation and the need for a thorough investigation.