By Amanda Castro, Jordan King, and Toby Meyjes
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A passenger has recalled the moment an Air Canada jet collided with a firetruck on the runway after landing at New York’s LaGuardia Airport late Sunday night in a crash that left two pilots dead. The passenger, Jack Cabot, told Fox News: "It was like a regular flight like always but as we were arriving we came down really hard, and then, we stopped really quickly and then, about two seconds later we just had an absolute slam - everybody was flying everywhere, the plane started veering off left and right…it was chaos."
He added: "The pilot did the best thing he could, he hit the brakes as hard as he could, and he knew it was going to be at the cost of his own life".
This came before the airport reopened as scheduled at 2 p.m. this afternoon.
What To Know:
- Audio from the tower indicates controllers referenced “an emergency earlier” minutes after the collision.
- The Air Canada Express Flight 8646, arriving from Montreal, struck a fire truck responding to a separate odor‑related incident on a United Airlines plane.
- The crash killed both pilots and injured dozens; 41 passengers and crew were taken to hospitals, officials said.
- Passengers reported no direction from the cockpit after impact; escape slides failed to deploy, forcing people to climb over the wings.
- A flight attendant was ejected from the aircraft and initially unaccounted for, witnesses said.
- The Bombardier CRJ‑900 remained on the runway more than 12 hours later with its nose sheared off.
- The collision appears to be LaGuardia’s first fatal accident since 1992.
- Hundreds of flights were canceled Monday as disruptions rippled across the region.
- Two firefighters in the struck vehicle were hospitalized in stable condition.
- The Port Authority confirmed the fire truck had been dispatched after a pilot reported an odor in the cabin.
- Flight data shows the jet slowed from about 151 mph to 24 mph within a minute of landing.
- Jazz Aviation, which operates Air Canada Express, serves 70 destinations across the U.S. and Canada.
- An air traffic controller can be heard saying he "messed up" on air traffic audio reviewed by Newsweek
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Mar 23, 2026 at 06:16 PM EDT
Flight attendant survives after being thrown from aircraft in LaGuardia crash
A flight attendant survived Sunday night’s deadly collision at LaGuardia Airport, where a Jazz Aviation flight operating for Air Canada struck a Port Authority firefighting vehicle on Runway 4, killing the pilot and co‑pilot and injuring dozens.
Port Authority officials said 41 people were taken to hospitals — 39 from the aircraft and two ARFF officers — after the crash. The firetruck had been crossing the tarmac with air‑traffic‑control clearance to respond to a separate emergency involving a United Airlines flight that reported an odor in the cabin.
Air traffic recordings captured a controller urgently shouting for the truck to stop moments before impact. Roughly 20 minutes later, the same controller could be heard saying, “I messed up,” acknowledging the earlier emergency response.
Amid the devastation, investigators say one crew member survived under extraordinary circumstances. The flight attendant was found outside the aircraft, still strapped into a jump seat that had been ejected during the collision. She is expected to recover.
The CRJ‑900 had departed Montreal with 72 passengers and four crew members. More than 40 people were injured, and officials say 32 of those hospitalized have since been released. The two firefighters inside the truck were also hurt but are in stable condition.
Emergency protocols were activated immediately, and LaGuardia remains closed as the NTSB and FAA investigate how the firetruck and aircraft ended up on the same active runway. Air Canada said it was “deeply saddened” by the loss of two Jazz employees and expressed condolences to their families and colleagues.
Mar 23, 2026 at 06:03 PM EDT
Firetruck in LaGuardia crash was responding to separate emergency, officials say
The Port Authority firetruck involved in the fatal collision with an Air Canada Express flight at LaGuardia Airport was responding to a separate emergency when the crash occurred, investigators confirmed Monday.
Officials said the Jazz Aviation‑operated aircraft struck an aircraft‑rescue and firefighting vehicle around 11:40 p.m. on Sunday as the truck headed toward an incident on Runway 4. According to early reports from the NTSB and airport officials, the crew had been dispatched to assist a United Airlines flight whose crew reported an odor in the cabin and requested immediate support.
Air traffic control audio reviewed by multiple outlets captured the United crew declaring an emergency, saying flight attendants in the rear of the plane were feeling ill. Controllers cleared the firetruck to cross the runway to reach the aircraft, then attempted to halt it moments before the collision. “Stop, stop, stop… Truck 1, stop,” one controller shouted, later adding, “We were dealing with an earlier emergency. I messed up.”
The crash killed the pilot and copilot of the Air Canada flight. A Port Authority spokesperson said 41 people were transported to hospitals — 39 from the aircraft and two ARFF officers. The names of the victims have not yet been released.
Flight 8646, traveling from Montreal to New York, carried 72 passengers and four crew members. LaGuardia remains closed as investigators from the NTSB, the Transportation Safety Board of Canada, and federal aviation officials examine how the firetruck and aircraft ended up on the same active runway.
Mar 23, 2026 at 05:50 PM EDT
Air traffic controllers union offers support after LaGuardia crash
The National Air Traffic Controllers Association is extending condolences and support following the deadly collision at LaGuardia Airport, saying its members are grieving alongside the wider aviation community. In a statement, the union said its “hearts are with the victims, their families, and all those affected,” and noted its solidarity with colleagues in the Air Line Pilots Association and the Canadian Flight Attendant Union.
Representing nearly 20,000 controllers and aviation safety professionals, the union said it is providing resources to members stationed at LaGuardia as they process the aftermath of the crash. NATCA added that it will refrain from further comment while the National Transportation Safety Board conducts its investigation.
The NTSB has deployed a full team to the site, including Chair Jennifer Homendy, as investigators begin examining how the collision occurred. NATCA said it will rely on the board’s findings to help guide future safety improvements, emphasizing its long‑standing support for efforts to modernize the U.S. air traffic control system and strengthen protections for both workers and passengers.
Mar 23, 2026 at 05:37 PM EDT
FAA efforts to curb runway incursions under scrutiny after LaGuardia crash
The Federal Aviation Administration has spent the past several years trying to strengthen runway safety at U.S. airports, a priority that intensified after a string of close calls in 2023 in which aircraft came dangerously close to colliding on the ground at major hubs. The agency convened a national safety summit, launched a dedicated review team and distributed $200 million in grants to airports to help reduce runway incursions involving aircraft or ground vehicles in the wrong place.
Manufacturers including Airbus and Boeing have also been working with technology providers such as Honeywell to expand cockpit alert systems that warn pilots not only about nearby aircraft but also about ground vehicles on active runways.
Serious near‑collisions remain relatively rare, typically numbering fewer than two dozen a year. But a government watchdog report covering the 12 months ending in September 2024 found that 44 percent of those incidents stemmed from pilot error, 33 percent from air traffic controller mistakes and 22 percent from ground personnel entering restricted areas.
The Transportation Department’s inspector general concluded that while the FAA has made progress, significant gaps remain. The agency still needs to implement additional recommendations from its safety review team — a task that has taken on renewed urgency as investigators examine how Sunday’s deadly runway collision at LaGuardia occurred.
Mar 23, 2026 at 05:24 PM EDT
Air Canada says casualty count still unclear after deadly collision
Air Canada released a video statement from CEO Michael Rousseau hours after a partner airline’s plane struck a fire truck on the runway, leaving multiple casualties and prompting a large emergency response. Rousseau offered condolences to families and acknowledged that officials are still working to determine the full number of victims.
He said the airline is coordinating with investigators to verify how many people were injured and whether additional fatalities occurred, noting that early information remains incomplete. Rousseau described the aftermath as “a difficult day” and said the company understands the public’s demand for clarity, but stressed that the circumstances are still being reviewed.
Mar 23, 2026 at 05:11 PM EDT
Passengers describe terror and chaos moments before LaGuardia crash
Passengers aboard the Air Canada Express flight that collided with a Port Authority fire truck at LaGuardia Airport on Sunday night say they were warned to brace for a possible emergency landing just moments before impact, setting off a frantic and disorienting escape that left two pilots dead and dozens injured.
Rebecca Liquori, 35, seated in 19A, said the flight from Montreal had been uneventful until descent, when a flight attendant instructed passengers to leave belongings behind if an emergency landing became necessary. Seconds later, she said, the aircraft slammed onto the runway. “The pilot was trying to brake to slow the plane down to avoid the crash,” she said. “It was like a grinding — I’ve never heard anything like it.”
Liquori, a nurse from Baldwin, N.Y., said the collision jolted passengers forward as screams filled the cabin. She saw people around her bleeding and bruised. With no instructions coming from the front of the plane, she opened an emergency exit herself, fearing the aircraft might catch fire. “The flight attendant in the front got ejected from the plane,” she said. “We really did not have direction.”
The ejected crew member, identified by family as Solange Tremblay, survived despite being thrown from the aircraft while still strapped into her jump seat. Her daughter told Quebec broadcaster TVA Nouvelles that Tremblay suffered a broken leg requiring surgery but avoided more serious injuries.
With the emergency slides failing to deploy, passengers climbed onto the wings and jumped to the tarmac. Liquori said the pilots “did everything they could to save us,” adding that the trauma of the moment still echoes: “Every time I close my eyes, my heart is racing.”
Another passenger, Jack Cabot, 22, said the jet veered sharply after the hard landing. “No one was driving at that point,” he said. He described a chaotic but swift evacuation, with some passengers grabbing luggage despite warnings. “No one really knew what was happening, just that it was time to get off the plane,” he said. “I’m a little banged up, but I’m happy I’m OK.”
The
Mar 23, 2026 at 04:58 PM EDT
WATCH: How the LaGuardia plane crash disaster unfolded
Mar 23, 2026 at 04:45 PM EDT
LaGuardia faces days of disruption as second runway remains closed
Airlines and passengers at LaGuardia Airport are likely to face several more days of delays as investigators continue examining the wreckage from Sunday night’s deadly collision between an Air Canada Express jet and a Port Authority fire truck, an aviation expert said Monday.
Although one runway reopened this afternoon, the second will remain closed while federal teams work through what Peter Goelz, a former NTSB managing director and CNN aviation analyst, described as a painstaking process. “That wreckage needs to be examined, it needs to be documented and then it’s got to be carefully removed,” he said, estimating the work will take “another week or more.”
More than 500 flights have already been canceled at New York City’s second‑busiest airport, according to FlightAware, compounding delays for thousands of travelers. Goelz noted that LaGuardia’s expanded flight volume in recent years leaves little flexibility when a runway goes offline. Reopening one strip, he said, is “the only strategy they can do” to keep the airport functioning during the investigation.
“LaGuardia’s in for a long haul before they’re back to normal,” he added.
The airport, which handled 32.8 million passengers last year, remains under heavy operational strain as federal investigators continue documenting the crash site.
Mar 23, 2026 at 04:32 PM EDT
Air Canada CEO says airline working to confirm injuries after LaGuardia crash
Michael Rousseau, the chief executive of Air Canada, said in a video posted to social media that the airline is still working to verify the full number of injuries and determine whether there were additional fatalities beyond the two pilots killed in Sunday night’s crash at LaGuardia Airport.
Rousseau called it a “difficult day for everyone,” noting that the Air Canada Express flight was carrying 72 passengers and four crew members when it collided with a Port Authority firefighting vehicle on Runway 4.
The airline has set up a hotline — 1‑800‑961‑7099 — for anyone concerned that friends or family may have been on board. Rousseau said Air Canada teams are coordinating with investigators and support staff as authorities continue to assess the aftermath of the deadly collision.
Mar 23, 2026 at 04:19 PM EDT
Trump calls LaGuardia crash a ‘terrible’ mistake
President Donald Trump, speaking to reporters in Florida on Monday, offered a brief reaction to the deadly collision at LaGuardia Airport, calling the incident a tragic error.
“They made a mistake. It’s a dangerous business. That’s terrible,” he said when asked about the crash that killed two pilots and injured dozens more.
Mar 23, 2026 at 04:06 PM EDT
Witnesses describe chaos after Air Canada crash at LaGuardia
Witnesses are beginning to recount the moments surrounding the deadly Air Canada crash at LaGuardia Airport, where a Jazz Aviation flight from Montreal struck a Port Authority fire engine on Runway 4, killing both pilots and injuring dozens.
Airport officials said the collision occurred around 11:40 p.m. Sunday as the firefighting vehicle responded to a separate emergency elsewhere on the airfield. “Emergency response protocols were immediately activated,” LaGuardia said in a statement, noting that the airport remains closed to allow investigators to work.
More than 500 flights were canceled Monday, leaving hundreds of travelers stranded — including Leo Medina, 23, who witnessed the crash from inside the terminal. Medina told the BBC he was only about 100 meters away when the aircraft hit the firetruck. “It was like the plane got cut in half,” he said.
Confusion quickly gave way to panic as emergency vehicles flooded the runway. Medina’s flight to Miami was moments from boarding but was forced back to the gate, leaving him and his friend stuck at the airport for more than 12 hours. “We’ve just been trying to make it work, sleeping,” he said. “Starbucks is the only place that’s open.”
The crash sent 41 people to hospitals — 39 from the aircraft and two ARFF officers — according to the Port Authority. The NTSB and federal investigators are now examining how the firetruck and aircraft ended up on the same active runway.
Mar 23, 2026 at 03:55 PM EDT
Agencies limit public details as NTSB leads LaGuardia probe
Officials at a LaGuardia Airport news conference said they are restricted in what they can disclose about Sunday night’s deadly runway collision because most of the agencies involved are formal parties to the National Transportation Safety Board investigation.
The NTSB, which is directing the probe, was not represented at the briefing.
Mar 23, 2026 at 03:48 PM EDT
Duffy says bipartisan cooperation emerged after LaGuardia crash
Speaking alongside New York’s Democratic leadership, Duffy noted that federal and state officials worked seamlessly in the hours after an Air Canada jet struck an emergency vehicle on the runway.
“When these incidents happen, you see politics fade away and people work together,” he said.
Mar 23, 2026 at 03:44 PM EDT
Port Authority chief says quick response prevented wider disaster
Port Authority Executive Director Kathryn Garcia said the aftermath of the LaGuardia crash made clear how much worse the situation could have been without an immediate, coordinated response. Speaking after touring the runway, Garcia praised first responders and airport personnel for acting swiftly in the moments after an Air Canada jet struck a fire‑rescue vehicle.
“This could have been an even broader tragedy if everyone had not responded as quickly and effectively as they did,” she said, noting that crews worked under dangerous conditions to evacuate passengers and secure the scene.
Mar 23, 2026 at 03:43 PM EDT
FAA chief says aborted takeoff triggered fire-truck response
Bryan Bedford, the administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration, said a United Airlines jet experienced an aborted takeoff Sunday night, prompting the deployment of the fire‑rescue vehicle later struck by an Air Canada flight at LaGuardia Airport. Bedford offered condolences to the families of the two pilots killed in the collision, calling them “two young men at the start of their career” and describing their deaths as a devastating loss.
Bedford outlined the weather conditions at the time of the crash, noting moderate winds and roughly four miles of visibility despite rain, mist, and patches of fog across the airfield.
He added that the FAA will “take concrete actions to ensure something like this will never happen again,” signaling that the agency expects to implement safety changes once investigators determine what went wrong.
Mar 23, 2026 at 03:38 PM EDT
Duffy urges air travelers to use seatbelts after touring crash site
Duffy said that walking the runway where an Air Canada flight collided with an emergency vehicle drove home a simple but urgent reminder about in‑flight safety.
After touring the wreckage at LaGuardia Airport, Duffy told reporters: “It was just a reminder that when you’re traveling by air, you should wear your seatbelt."
Mar 23, 2026 at 03:37 PM EDT
Duffy says he’s briefed Trump and Canadian officials on LGA crash
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy told reporters at LaGuardia Airport that he has spoken with President Donald Trump and Canada’s transport minister as officials work to understand how an Air Canada flight collided with an emergency vehicle late Sunday night.
Duffy said he intends to release as much information as possible but cautioned that some details must remain confidential while the National Transportation Safety Board conducts its investigation. He emphasized that the NTSB is now leading the technical review and that his department will defer to its findings.
The secretary added that federal agencies are coordinating closely as investigators document the scene and interview personnel involved in the crash.
Mar 23, 2026 at 03:29 PM EDT
NTSB investigators examine runway after deadly LaGuardia crash
Investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board are on the ground at LaGuardia Airport, examining the runway where an Air Canada flight struck an emergency vehicle late Sunday, killing two people and injuring dozens. The wreckage remains in place as investigators document the scene and begin piecing together how the collision unfolded.
The airport has since reopened with only one operational runway, easing a shutdown that triggered hundreds of cancellations and widespread delays across the region.
Officials from the Federal Aviation Administration and Canada’s Transportation Safety Board are also expected to join the probe, which is now moving into its initial fact‑gathering phase.
Mar 23, 2026 at 03:27 PM EDT
Catch up as investigation underway after fatal collision at LaGuardia Airport
An investigation is underway after an Air Canada flight collided with an emergency vehicle late Sunday at LaGuardia Airport, killing the aircraft’s two pilots and injuring dozens of passengers and rescue personnel.
Officials said the pilot and copilot died at the scene, while two members of the Port Authority rescue crew were injured. A total of 41 passengers and crew were taken to area hospitals; 32 have since been released, according to the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.
Images from the runway showed a chaotic aftermath. A flight attendant was discovered outside the aircraft still strapped into her seat, and passengers were seen standing on the wing as they evacuated. One traveler described a frantic escape through the emergency exit with no guidance from the cockpit.
LaGuardia remains closed until at least 2 p.m. ET, prompting widespread disruptions. Delta Air Lines, the airport’s largest carrier, warned travelers to expect significant delays and cancellations.
A National Transportation Safety Board go‑team is arriving today, joined by investigators from the Transportation Safety Board of Canada. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford, and NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy are also expected on site.
The White House referred questions to Duffy, who said the FAA is working closely with federal investigators. President Donald Trump called the crash “terrible,” adding, “They made a mistake; it’s a dangerous business.”
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said U.S. and Canadian officials are coordinating closely as the investigation begins.
Mar 23, 2026 at 03:00 PM EDT
Canada’s transport minister vows full investigation into LaGuardia crash
Steve MacKinnon, Canada’s minister responsible for Transport Canada, said the government is committed to uncovering exactly how the deadly Air Canada Express collision at LaGuardia Airport occurred. Speaking to the French‑language service of the CBC, MacKinnon said officials “will get to the bottom of this” as investigators from both countries continue to examine the crash.
Despite the severity of the incident, MacKinnon stressed that Canadians should remain confident in the safety of air travel, noting that the country’s aviation system maintains rigorous oversight and strong safety records.
Mar 23, 2026 at 02:47 PM EDT
Canada directs citizens to emergency lines after LaGuardia crash
Canada’s consulate in New York is urging any Canadian citizens affected by the Air Canada Express crash at LaGuardia Airport to contact its emergency services for assistance.
Consul General Tom Clark posted the guidance on social media, saying support is available around the clock. “Any Canadians requiring assistance as a result of the Air Canada tragedy can contact us 24/7 by phone at +1 (613) 996‑8885 or by email at sos@international.gc.ca,” he wrote.
Mar 23, 2026 at 02:34 PM EDT
IN PICTURES: Travelers stranded at LaGuardia after all flights canceled following deadly crash
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Mar 23, 2026 at 02:21 PM EDT
Port Authority says unaccompanied minor from crash has been reunited with family
Kathryn Garcia, the executive director of the Port Authority, said Monday that an unaccompanied minor was aboard the Air Canada Express flight that crashed earlier in the day at LaGuardia Airport.
Garcia told reporters at a morning press conference that the child had been located and safely reunited with family members following the collision, which killed two pilots and injured dozens of passengers.
Mar 23, 2026 at 02:15 PM EDT
First flight departs LaGuardia after deadly runway crash
The first departure from LaGuardia Airport since Sunday night’s fatal collision took off at 2:08 p.m. ET, marking the airport’s initial step toward restoring operations after a full shutdown. The flight — Delta Air Lines 990 bound for Atlanta — lifted off from the airport’s only functioning runway, as investigators continue examining wreckage from the crash that killed two pilots and injured dozens.
LaGuardia reopened about fifteen minutes ago with limited capacity, operating on a single runway while the NTSB documents the scene of the Air Canada Express collision with a Port Authority fire truck. Nearly 600 flights have been canceled so far today, and airlines warn that delays and disruptions will continue as the investigation unfolds.
Mar 23, 2026 at 02:08 PM EDT
Former controller says coordination between Tower positions is key in runway safety
As investigators examine how a landing aircraft collided with a fire truck at LaGuardia Airport, a retired air traffic controller says the incident underscores the importance of seamless communication inside the tower.
Harvey Scolnick, who spent decades in air traffic control, explained that two distinct positions manage aircraft and vehicles on the airfield: the ground controller, who oversees taxiways and movement areas, and the local controller, who handles takeoffs, landings, and runway operations. “There has to be coordination between the ground controller and the local controller when runways are crossed,” he said.
Scolnick noted that procedures for moving vehicles across runways vary by airport. In some places, ground controllers keep vehicles on their frequency; in others, vehicles switch to the local controller for explicit clearance. At LaGuardia, he said, “it looks like both positions were staffed.”
Mar 23, 2026 at 02:04 PM EDT
LaGuardia set to reopen with limited operations after deadly runway crash
LaGuardia Airport is on track to reopen at 2 p.m. ET following a full shutdown prompted by the deadly collision between an Air Canada Express jet and a Port Authority fire truck late Sunday. Federal officials say the airport will resume operations using only one runway, as much of the wreckage remains in place while investigators continue their work.
According to an FAA operations plan, the damaged runway will stay closed as National Transportation Safety Board teams document the scene and begin analyzing how the aircraft and emergency vehicle ended up on the same active strip.
In a statement on X, LaGuardia warned that “as operations resume, travelers should expect residual delays and cancellations.” Nearly 600 flights have already been canceled today, with the airport’s largest carrier, Delta Air Lines, cautioning passengers that additional schedule changes are likely.
The reopening comes as investigators piece together the sequence of events that led to the crash, which killed the plane’s two pilots and injured dozens of passengers and emergency personnel.
Mar 23, 2026 at 01:55 PM EDT
Data shows Air Canada jet had slowed significantly before runway collision
New flight‑tracking data indicate the Air Canada Express aircraft had already decelerated sharply before it collided with a Port Authority fire truck at LaGuardia Airport on Sunday night.
According to figures from FlightRadar24, the jet touched down at a ground speed of 132 knots (151 m.p.h.) and reduced its speed to 21 knots (24 m.p.h.) less than a minute later — a normal rate of deceleration during landing.
Mar 23, 2026 at 01:42 PM EDT
Talk-radio caller may have sparked Trump’s push to deploy ice at airports
A suggestion from a caller on a conservative talk‑radio program may have helped set off the rapid deployment of ICE agents to airports across the United States. On Friday, a woman identifying herself as “Linda from Arizona” phoned into The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show and proposed bringing in immigration agents to address what she called a “TSA problem.”
Co‑host Clay Travis praised the idea on air, calling it “kind of brilliant.” Within 24 hours, Travis appeared on one of President Donald Trump’s favored Fox News programs and repeated the proposal directly to the audience — and potentially to the president himself.
By Saturday afternoon, Trump publicly embraced the concept, announcing his plan to place ICE agents at airports nationwide. The White House has not said whether Trump watched the segment, but the president has a long history of responding in real time to Fox News commentary and amplifying it on social media.
Mar 23, 2026 at 01:29 PM EDT
Expert says LaGuardia crash could have been far deadlier given size of ARFF truck
A veteran aircraft‑firefighting trainer says the fatal collision at LaGuardia Airport could easily have resulted in even greater loss of life, given the sheer size and weight of the specialized fire truck involved.
Louis Kurtz, who trains airport firefighters in Minnesota and runs ARFF Specialists in Carlton, said he was struck by how many passengers survived despite the force of impact. He noted that airport rescue trucks are significantly heavier and more rigid than standard municipal engines, built to haul up to 4,500 gallons of water and 500 gallons of firefighting foam.
“It’s tragic,” Kurtz said. “But this scene could have been substantially worse” had the vehicle struck a wing or the underside of the aircraft, where fuel is stored.
Federal investigators are continuing to examine how the Port Authority ARFF truck and the Air Canada Express jet ended up on the same runway Sunday night, killing two pilots and injuring dozens.
Mar 23, 2026 at 01:16 PM EDT
Port Authority chief says all airfield movement depends on Tower clearance
Kathryn Garcia, the executive director of the Port Authority, said Monday that any vehicle operating on LaGuardia Airport’s runways or taxiways must receive explicit instructions from air traffic control, underscoring the tower’s authority as investigators probe Sunday night’s fatal collision.
Asked how procedures typically work when multiple vehicles are on the tarmac, Garcia said the protocol “always is in deference to the control tower,” noting that controllers determine when and where ground units can move. She did not assign blame to air traffic control but emphasized that tower clearance is required for every vehicle on active airfield surfaces.
“Anytime anyone is moving on any of our runways or taxiways, they have to get clearance from the tower to move,” she told reporters.
Mar 23, 2026 at 01:03 PM EDT
Port Authority Fire Rescue truck involved in LaGuardia collision was responding to separate call
The vehicle that collided with an Air Canada jet at LaGuardia Airport on Sunday night was a Port Authority Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) truck, a specialized unit trained to handle aviation emergencies. ARFF teams operate at airports across the United States and receive FAA‑mandated certification to respond to aircraft fires, which often involve hard‑to‑reach areas such as engines, cargo holds, and spilled jet fuel.
At LaGuardia, the ARFF unit is staffed by officers from the Port Authority Police Department, all of whom undergo FAA training specific to airport fire operations.
According to Port Authority Executive Director Kathryn Garcia, the truck involved in the collision had been dispatched to investigate a report of an odor on another aircraft when it entered the runway. Two officers were inside the vehicle at the time; both were hospitalized in stable condition.
Federal investigators are now examining how the ARFF truck and the Air Canada Express aircraft ended up on the same active runway, resulting in a crash that killed the plane’s two pilots and injured dozens of passengers.
Mar 23, 2026 at 12:53 PM EDT
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said ‘dozens’ of people were injured, some seriously, in collision
"My heart goes out to the families of the two pilots, Canadian pilots. Certainly a very tragic outcome," she said at a news conference.
Hochul said she’s been fully briefed on the incident and has been in contact with officials, including that she "left a message" for Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy.
Mar 23, 2026 at 12:37 PM EDT
Canadian Minister expresses sympathy after LaGuardia crash
Canadian cabinet minister Steven MacKinnon said he is “deeply saddened” by the fatal accident at LaGuardia Airport involving an Air Canada Express flight traveling from Montreal.
In a statement shared on X, MacKinnon said his thoughts are with the families, loved ones, and colleagues of those who died, as well as the passengers and crew who were injured.
Mar 23, 2026 at 12:24 PM EDT
NYC mayor adds LaGuardia visit after deadly airport collision
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has added a stop at LaGuardia Airport to his schedule today, shifting plans in the wake of the deadly Air Canada Express collision that shut down the airport and injured dozens.
Mamdani canceled a previously scheduled worker‑protection briefing and will tour the airport around 12:30 p.m., accompanied by Kathryn Garcia, the head of the Port Authority, which operates LaGuardia.
Mar 23, 2026 at 12:11 PM EDT
Pilots’ union calls LaGuardia crash a ‘profound tragedy’
The Air Line Pilots Association is mourning the loss of two aviators killed when Air Canada Express Flight 8646 collided with a Port Authority firefighting vehicle on a LaGuardia runway Sunday night. In a statement, ALPA president Capt. Jason Ambrosi said the deaths of the pilot and first officer represent “a profound tragedy,” noting that both had devoted their careers to keeping passengers safe.
Ambrosi said the union’s accident investigation team is heading to support the National Transportation Safety Board as the federal probe gets underway. ALPA is also providing assistance to the pilots’ families and colleagues at Jazz Aviation, the regional carrier operating the flight.
Mar 23, 2026 at 11:58 AM EDT
Flight attendant found alive outside wreckage after LaGuardia crash
A flight attendant survived the Air Canada crash at LaGuardia Airport after being discovered outside the aircraft still strapped into her seat, a law enforcement source told CNN. The extraordinary detail emerged as investigators continue to piece together how Sunday night’s collision unfolded.
Air Canada confirmed that two crew members — the pilot and first officer — were killed in the crash. The airline said early Monday that it could not yet verify the full number of injuries or fatalities as emergency crews and federal investigators work through the scene.
Mar 23, 2026 at 11:45 AM EDT
FAA probes whether staffing played role in LaGuardia collision
FAA Secretary Sean Duffy said his office is examining whether air traffic control staffing levels contributed to the deadly incident under investigation at LaGuardia Airport.
ATC towers across the country have been understaffed for months, a strain that became especially visible during the last government shutdown, when widespread delays and cancellations rippled through the aviation system. Many controllers who remained on duty during that period worked without pay, deepening concerns about fatigue and safety.
Duffy said the agency will review whether similar staffing pressures may have been a factor in Sunday’s collision, as federal investigators continue to piece together what went wrong.
Mar 23, 2026 at 11:32 AM EDT
Port Authority firefighting unit responded in LaGuardia collision
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, which oversees the region’s three major airports, relies on its own police department to staff a specialized Aircraft Rescue Firefighting Unit trained to respond to aviation emergencies. Members of this unit are certified by the Federal Aviation Administration and handle incidents across the airport system, including at LaGuardia.
According to Kathryn Garcia, the Port Authority’s executive director, the fire rescue truck struck by the Air Canada Express jet on Sunday carried a sergeant and another officer. Both were taken to a hospital following the collision. The agency continues to coordinate with federal investigators as they examine how the deadly crash unfolded.
Mar 23, 2026 at 11:19 AM EDT
A look at the deadliest commercial plane crashes in U.S. history
Commercial aviation remains one of the safest ways to travel, with accident rates far lower than those associated with driving. Still, when catastrophic crashes do occur, the scale of loss leaves a lasting mark on the nation. These are the five deadliest commercial airline disasters to take place in the United States.
American Airlines Flight 191 — Chicago, 1979
The deadliest single‑aircraft crash on U.S. soil happened on May 25, 1979, when American Airlines Flight 191, a McDonnell Douglas DC‑10, lost its left engine during takeoff from Chicago O’Hare International Airport. The engine and pylon assembly separated from the wing, causing the aircraft to roll and crash moments later. All 271 people on board and two people on the ground were killed. Investigators later determined that improper maintenance procedures had damaged the pylon structure.
American Airlines Flight 587 — Queens, 2001
On November 12, 2001, American Airlines Flight 587 departed John F. Kennedy International Airport bound for the Dominican Republic. The Airbus A300 encountered wake turbulence from a preceding Boeing 747 shortly after takeoff. The first officer’s aggressive rudder inputs caused the vertical stabilizer to fail, sending the plane into a residential neighborhood in Queens. All 260 people on board and five people on the ground died.
TWA Flight 800 — Off Long Island, 1996
Just minutes after taking off from JFK on July 17, 1996, TWA Flight 800, a Boeing 747‑100 headed for Paris, exploded over the Atlantic Ocean near Long Island. All 230 passengers and crew were killed. After a years‑long investigation, the NTSB concluded that an explosion in the center wing fuel tank—likely triggered by faulty wiring—caused the disaster.
PSA Flight 182 — San Diego, 1978
A mid‑air collision over San Diego on September 25, 1978, claimed 144 lives. PSA Flight 182, a Boeing 727 on approach to San Diego International Airport, collided with a Cessna 172. Both aircraft crashed into a residential neighborhood, killing everyone aboard both planes and seven people on the ground.
Delta Air Lines Flight 191 — Dallas/Fort Worth, 1985
On August 2, 1985, Delta Flight 191, a Lockheed L‑1011 TriStar, encountered a powerful microburst while approaching Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport during a thunderstorm. The sudden wind shear forced the aircraft to the ground short of the runway, where it struck a car and several structures. The crash killed 136 people, including the driver of the car; one passenger initially survived but later died from injuries.
Mar 23, 2026 at 11:06 AM EDT
LaGuardia remains closed as officials release new details on fatal crash: Everything we know
LaGuardia Airport remains shut down after an Air Canada Express jet collided with a Port Authority fire rescue vehicle late Sunday, killing two pilots and injuring 41 people. Officials say the two crew members in the emergency vehicle were also hurt.
According to the Port Authority, 41 passengers and crew were taken to hospitals after the crash, and 32 have since been released. The National Transportation Safety Board has launched a full investigation, with teams arriving on site Monday. The Transportation Safety Board of Canada is also sending investigators, given the aircraft’s Canadian operator and manufacturer.
The airport is expected to remain closed until at least 2 p.m. ET as the investigation continues. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul and New York City Mayor Zoran Mamdani are monitoring the situation, and CNN has asked the White House whether President Donald Trump has been briefed.
The shutdown has caused widespread travel disruptions across the region as authorities work to determine how the collision occurred.
Mar 23, 2026 at 10:53 AM EDT
Delta LaGuardia flights canceled after deadly collision
Delta Air Lines, which operates roughly half of all flights in and out of LaGuardia Airport, has canceled its morning and early‑afternoon schedule following the fatal collision that shut down the airport Sunday night.
In a statement, the airline said additional cancellations may be necessary as the investigation continues and operations remain suspended. Delta noted that affected passengers will be automatically rebooked on new flights once schedules stabilize.
“The hearts and thoughts of the entire Delta Air Lines family are with all those affected,” the carrier said, expressing condolences to the families of the two pilots killed and support for the dozens injured in the crash.
Mar 23, 2026 at 10:40 AM EDT
Mark Carney expresses sympathy after fatal crash
Former Bank of England governor Mark Carney said he was “deeply saddened” by the deadly collision involving an Air Canada Express aircraft in New York, which killed the pilot and co‑pilot and injured dozens more.
In a statement shared on X, Carney said Canadian officials are coordinating closely with U.S. authorities as the investigation into the runway crash continues. He offered condolences to the victims and their families, adding that his thoughts were with everyone affected by the tragedy.
Mar 23, 2026 at 10:27 AM EDT
Newark airport halts flights after Tower evacuation
Newark Liberty International Airport implemented a ground stop Monday morning after air traffic controllers were forced to evacuate the tower due to a burning smell coming from an elevator, according to the Federal Aviation Administration.
The evacuation occurred around 7:30 a.m., prompting the FAA to pause all arrivals and departures while the situation was investigated. The agency said the tower is now in the process of being restaffed, but it was not immediately clear when normal operations would resume.
The disruption makes Newark the second of the New York City area’s three major airports to be out of service this morning, with LaGuardia Airport already closed following a deadly collision Sunday night.
Mar 23, 2026 at 10:14 AM EDT
Air traffic control audio captures aftermath of LaGuardia collision
Newly released air traffic control audio captures the tense moments after an Air Canada Express jet collided with a Port Authority fire truck at LaGuardia Airport, including one controller saying he “messed up” as the situation unfolded.
In the recordings published by LiveATC, a controller is heard reacting to the crash, saying it “wasn’t good to watch.” Another controller responds, “Yeah, I know I was here. I tried to reach out … we were dealing with an emergency earlier. I messed up.” A colleague quickly reassures him: “Nah, man, you did the best you could.”
Earlier in the audio, a controller can be heard instructing a fire vehicle to stop: “Truck One, stop.” The truck had been responding to a separate emergency involving a United Airlines flight reporting an onboard odor that was making flight attendants in the rear of the aircraft feel ill.
“We will need to go into any available gate at this time,” a woman says in the recording. Another voice adds, “Do you have any gates for United? Because United’s declaring an emergency, they want to get out.”
Mar 23, 2026 at 10:07 AM EDT
FAA secretary heads to LaGuardia after deadly runway crash
FAA Secretary Sean Duffy said he is traveling to LaGuardia Airport following the horrific collision between Air Canada Express Flight 8646 and a Port Authority fire truck, an accident that killed both pilots Sunday night.
Mar 23, 2026 at 10:01 AM EDT
Collision at LaGuardia triggers major travel disruptions across New York region
The shutdown of LaGuardia Airport after a deadly collision between an Air Canada Express jet and a Port Authority fire truck late Sunday brought one of the nation’s busiest travel hubs to a standstill, disrupting hundreds of flights and stranding tens of thousands of passengers.
The Federal Aviation Administration said the airport would remain closed until at least 2 p.m. Monday, halting operations at a facility that typically handles more than 900 daily arrivals and departures. By Monday morning, over 500 flights had been canceled, with delays rippling across the Northeast.
The crash, which killed two pilots and injured dozens, struck at the heart of an airport that serves as a major gateway for domestic and regional travel. LaGuardia’s operations are largely limited to destinations within 1,500 miles under a long‑standing Port Authority rule, making it a crucial link for East Coast and central U.S. routes.
The aircraft involved was a CRJ‑900, built by Mitsubishi and operated for Air Canada Express by Jazz Aviation. A preliminary manifest indicated 72 passengers and four crew members were on board. At least 13 inbound flights were diverted to nearby airports, including John F. Kennedy International Airport.
The shutdown also caused significant ground‑level disruptions. New York City’s emergency alert system warned drivers of road closures and heavy traffic around the airport, urging travelers to seek alternate routes.
LaGuardia, once criticized for its aging infrastructure, recently completed a $4 billion overhaul that transformed its terminals and earned widespread praise. The airport is a major hub for Delta Air Lines, which operates roughly half of its daily flights, while Air Canada runs more than 20.
Sunday’s collision came on the heels of already strained operations, as travelers had faced hours‑long security lines earlier in the day amid a nationwide TSA staffing shortage tied to the ongoing partial government shutdown.
Mar 23, 2026 at 09:48 AM EDT
Pilot union mourns loss of crewmembers killed in LaGuardia collision
The Air Line Pilots Association is sending its accident investigation team to LaGuardia Airport after two pilots were killed in a runway collision Sunday night.
In a statement, Jason Ambrosi, the union’s president, said the aviators who died had “dedicated their careers to the safe transport of passengers,” calling the loss a profound blow to the pilot community.
A.L.P.A. investigators will work alongside the National Transportation Safety Board as the federal probe into the fatal crash continues.
Mar 23, 2026 at 09:35 AM EDT
Canada’s Transportation Safety Board assisting U.S. investigators at LaGuardia
The Transportation Safety Board of Canada has deployed a team to LaGuardia Airport to support the National Transportation Safety Board as it investigates the runway collision that killed two pilots on Sunday.
Canadian involvement extends beyond the fact that the aircraft was operated by Air Canada and Jazz Aviation. The jet involved in the crash was originally designed and built in Canada by Bombardier, the Montreal‑based manufacturer whose regional airliner program was later sold to Mitsubishi. While Mitsubishi ended production of new aircraft after the acquisition, it continues to supply parts and support for the fleet still in service.
The TSB said its investigators will work alongside U.S. authorities as they examine the circumstances leading to the fatal collision.
Mar 23, 2026 at 09:22 AM EDT
Transportation secretary says FAA team heading to LaGuardia after deadly crash
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said Monday that the Federal Aviation Administration is deploying a team to LaGuardia Airport to assist the National Transportation Safety Board as it investigates a runway collision that killed two people Sunday night.
In a statement posted on X, Duffy offered condolences to those affected by the crash. “Our prayers this morning are with the families impacted by the ground collision at LaGuardia,” he wrote, adding that the FAA will support the NTSB’s on‑site work.
Duffy noted that LaGuardia will remain closed until 2 p.m. Monday while investigators examine the accident scene. He said federal officials will continue coordinating closely with the NTSB and will provide further updates as the inquiry progresses.
Mar 23, 2026 at 09:09 AM EDT
Zohran Mamdani reacts to LaGuardia crash
New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani has reacted to the crash at LaGuardia Airport, calling it "tragic."
"I have been briefed on the tragic collision that took place at LaGuardia Airport late last night," he said in a post on X. "The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the incident, and the City is in close contact with federal, state, and local partners."
"I am grateful to our first responders, whose swift actions saved lives," he added. "The flight operator, Air Canada, has set up a hotline for friends and families of affected passengers: 1-800-961-7099"
"LaGuardia Airport is currently closed. The Port Authority advises travelers to check with their airline for the latest flight information before coming to the airport."
Mar 23, 2026 at 09:08 AM EDT
Two pilots killed after Air Canada flight collides with fire rescue vehicle at LaGuardia
Two pilots were killed and 41 people were taken to hospitals after an Air Canada–operated flight struck a Port Authority Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting vehicle on a runway at LaGuardia Airport late Sunday, officials said.
The collision occurred around 11:40 p.m., when the Jazz Aviation aircraft, operating on behalf of Air Canada, hit the emergency vehicle as it responded to a separate incident elsewhere on the airfield, according to a Port Authority spokesperson. The pilot and co‑pilot of the aircraft died at the scene.
A total of 39 passengers on board, along with two fire officers, were transported to area hospitals. Authorities did not immediately release information about their conditions.
LaGuardia will remain closed until at least 2 p.m. Monday to allow investigators to examine the site. The National Transportation Safety Board is leading the probe, with Port Authority police coordinating alongside airline partners and federal agencies.
Mar 23, 2026 at 08:12 AM EDT
New York Governor Kathy Hochul reacts to crash: ‘Heartbreaking’
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has reacted to the collision at LaGuardia in a post on X, calling it "heartbreaking."
"Two pilots were killed and dozens injured in this tragedy," she said. "Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and everyone affected."
Mar 23, 2026 at 08:07 AM EDT
Airline ‘deeply saddened’ by pilots’ death
Jazz Aviation said in an update on Monday morning that it is "deeply saddened" by the deaths of the two pilots on flight 8646 at LaGuardia.
Mar 23, 2026 at 08:04 AM EDT
Update from Jazz Aviation
Jazz Aviation has issued a new update on the collision at LaGuardia Airport.
"Jazz is deeply saddened by the loss of two employees and are working to support family members and employees at this difficult time," the airline said.
President Doug Clarke said: "Today is an incredibly difficult day for our airline, our employees, and most importantly, the families and loved ones of those affected by the accident involving flight 8646. We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of our two pilots and our unwavering support to those who have been injured."
"As the investigation unfolds, we are fully committed to cooperating with the relevant authorities to determine what happened," he added. "We will share updates as soon as verified information becomes available. We will continue to provide our full support in the days and weeks ahead."
Friends and family members of passengers on flight 8646 can call 1-800-961-7099 for more information.
Mar 23, 2026 at 07:18 AM EDT
FAA announces investigation
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said it would investigate the LaGuardia plane crash alongside the NTSB, which is leading the probe.
"Air Canada Express Flight 8646 struck an Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting vehicle after landing on Runway 4 at LaGuardia Airport in New York," the FAA said in a post on X. "The accident occurred around 11:40 p.m. local time on Sunday, March 22. The CRJ-900 was arriving from Montreal. The FAA and NTSB will investigate. The NTSB is in charge of the investigation and will provide all updates."
The airport is currently still closed.
Mar 23, 2026 at 07:11 AM EDT
Air Canada passenger details moments of collision: ‘It was chaos’
Jack Cabot, a passenger on the Air Canada jet involved in the collision details the moments before and during the crash.
He told Fox News: "It was like a regular flight like always but as we were arriving we came down really hard, and then, we stopped really quickly and then, about two seconds later we just had an absolute slam - everybody was flying everywhere, the plane started veering off left and right…it was chaos."
Cabot also praised the pilot, saying "looking back on it, the pilot did the best thing he could, he hit the brakes as hard as he could and he knew it was going to be at the cause of his own life."
Mar 23, 2026 at 07:06 AM EDT
Crash audio reveals aftermath of collision: ‘I messed up’
Air traffic audio reviewed by Newsweek reveal the moments after an Air Canada regional jet struck a fire truck on the runway of New York's LaGuardia Airport late Sunday, with a controller saying that he "messed up."
In the audio, captured by LiveATC.net, one controller says minutes after the collision, "That wasn't good to watch."
A controller is heard replying: "Yeah, I know. I was here. I tried to reach out…We were dealing with an emergency earlier. I messed up." The other person can be heard saying, "Nah man, you did the best you could."
Earlier in the recording, a vehicle identified as "Truck 1" can be heard requesting permission to cross the runway.
Moments after permission is granted, a controller is heard repeatedly telling "Truck 1" to stop.
"Stop, stop, stop…Truck 1, stop!" the controller can be heard saying. The controller can then be heard diverting incoming aircraft from landing.
Newsweek has covered this in more detail here.
Mar 23, 2026 at 07:03 AM EDT
Video shows port authority confirming pilot deaths
Mar 23, 2026 at 06:16 AM EDT
Air Canada sets up phone line for friends and family of passengers
Air Canada has set up a phone line for friends and family of passengers on Air Canada Express flight AC8646 involved in the collision - 1-800-961-7099
Mar 23, 2026 at 06:13 AM EDT
LaGuardia plane crash pictures show emergency response
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Mar 23, 2026 at 05:53 AM EDT
National Transportation Safety Board launches go team
The NTSB said in a post on X that it is "launching a go team to investigate the March 22 Jazz Aviation, Air Canada Express Flight 8646, CRJ900, airplane that collided with a fire truck on Runway 4 at LaGuardia Airport in New York NY."
The team, chaired by Jennifer Homendy, accompanied by Member John DeLeeuw, is expected to arrive at the airport on Monday.
Mar 23, 2026 at 05:16 AM EDT
Speed of the aircraft during collision to be determined
Port authority director Garcia said the NTSB is yet to determine the speed of the aircraft at the time of the collision.
According to flight tracking website FlightRadar, the Air Canada Express CRJ-900 had flown to New York from Montreal and had a last reported groundspeed of 21 knots (around 24 mph) before the collision.
Mar 23, 2026 at 05:04 AM EDT
LaGuardia Airport closed until at least 2pm
It is anticipated that LaGuardia Airport will be closed until at least 2:00 p.m. local time on Monday "to facilitate the investigation" byt the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), "which has already begun," port authoritiy director Garcia said.
Mar 23, 2026 at 05:00 AM EDT
Unaccompanied minor reunited with family
Port authority director Garcia said that passengers on the plane were directed to Air Canada's ticket counter to be reunited with their families, which includes one unaccompanied minor.
Mar 23, 2026 at 04:58 AM EDT
Two pilots confirmed dead
Authorities have confirmed that the two pilots on the plane involved in the collision were killed.
"Notifications have been made by Air Canada's care team at this time," Kathryn Garcia, the executive director of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey said at a press conference in the early hours of Monday morning.
Mar 23, 2026 at 04:52 AM EDT
Officials give update on LaGuardia Airport crash: Watch live
Authorities are giving a live update on the collision at LaGuardia Airport. Watch the live press conference here:
Mar 23, 2026 at 04:47 AM EDT
Jazz Aviation/Air Canada Express collision at LaGuardia Airport
A Jazz Aviation flight operating as Air Canada Express collided "struck a Port Authority Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting vehicle that was responding to a separate incident" at LaGuardia Airport, the airport said in a statement on X.
The incident occurred on Runway 4 at around 11:40 p.m. E.T. Sunday
Mar 23, 2026 at 04:47 AM EDT
How many people were on the plane?
Flight 8646, which was en route from Montréal-Trudeau (YUL) to LaGuardia (LGA), was carrying 72 passengers and four crew members, Jazz Aviation said in a statement.
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