Two Air Canada pilots die as their jet crashes into a fire truck at New York’s LaGuardia Airport, injuring 41 passengers and prompting urgent investigations.
Tragedy Strikes at LaGuardia Airport
A routine flight from Montreal ended in tragedy late Sunday when an Air Canada Express jet collided with a fire truck at New York’s LaGuardia Airport. The crash claimed the lives of both the pilot and co-pilot, while 41 passengers were rushed to hospitals, some in serious condition.
Clement Lelievre, a passenger on Flight AC8646, described the terrifying moments. “Just as the plane touched down, the pilot braked extremely hard,” he said. “I think he saved our lives with incredible reflexes.”
Chaos on the Tarmac
The crash occurred shortly after 11:30 p.m., as the Jazz Aviation-operated jet completed its journey from Montréal–Trudeau International Airport. Emergency crews were already on high alert, responding to a separate incident on a United Airlines flight that reported a strange odour onboard.
Air traffic control recordings reveal a frantic attempt to stop a fire truck crossing the tarmac. “Stop, Truck 1. Stop,” an officer can be heard shouting, while trying to redirect incoming planes.
In the aftermath, witnesses described a tense but composed evacuation. Passengers climbed down emergency exits and wings, helping one another to safety. Lelievre, who suffered head and knee injuries, said, “At the time, it was OK. Later, when the adrenaline wore off, we realized this doesn’t happen every day.”
Devastating Impact
Photos from the scene show the jet resting on its tail, with a crushed nose exposing cockpit controls, and a neon-yellow fire truck toppled nearby. Despite the violence of the collision, the two Port Authority workers in the truck sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
Air Canada expressed deep sorrow for the loss of its Jazz Aviation crew. “Our deepest condolences go out to the Jazz community and their families,” the airline said, sending officials to assist with the investigation.
Aircraft and Airport Details
The CRJ-900, a workhorse regional jet carrying 76–90 passengers, was on a short-haul route when the crash occurred. Known for its narrow fuselage, rear-mounted engines, and T-shaped tail, it typically connects smaller cities to major hubs.
LaGuardia, one of New York City’s three main airports, handles heavy domestic traffic and sits on the edge of Flushing Bay in Queens. It was the 19th busiest U.S. airport in 2024, with over 16.7 million passengers boarding that year. The airport remained closed until at least 2 p.m. Monday to allow investigators to examine the crash site.
Ongoing Investigation
Canadian and U.S. authorities are working closely to determine what led to the collision. Canadian Transport Minister Steven McKinnon emphasized that “aviation safety remains our highest priority.” The National Transportation Safety Board is leading the investigation, supported by Canadian experts.
Passengers who arrived early for flights faced disruptions, with some rebooking for the next day or seeking alternative airports. The incident has prompted heightened scrutiny of LaGuardia’s busy runways and emergency response protocols.
