An Air Canada Express jet collided with an airport emergency vehicle while landing at New York’s LaGuardia Airport, killing both pilots and injuring several others. The crash triggered a shutdown of the airport, with investigations focusing on runway safety procedures and air traffic control coordination as authorities examine the cause.
NEW YORK – A tragic aviation incident unfolded at New York’s LaGuardia Airport (LGA) when an Air Canada Express regional jet collided with an airport emergency vehicle during landing, killing both pilots and injuring multiple passengers and ground personnel.
The aircraft, a Bombardier CRJ-900 operated by Jazz Aviation on behalf of Air Canada, had arrived from Montreal when the collision occurred shortly before midnight, according to early reports.
Fatal cockpit impact and multiple injuries
Authorities confirmed that pilot and co-pilot were killedwith the force of the collision concentrated in the cockpit area. Several passengers and first responders sustained injuries, including two Port Authority officers who remain hospitalized in stable condition.
The aircraft was carrying approximately 70+ passengers and crew, although officials continue to verify the final manifest.
Collision during landing rollout
Preliminary information indicates the aircraft struck a fire rescue vehicle on the runway during its landing rollout. Early air traffic control audio circulating publicly appears to capture urgent warnings to the vehicle moments before the crash.
Investigators are now focusing on Runway clearance procedures and communication between ground vehicles and air traffic control.
Eyewitness accounts emerge on social media
As the incident unfolded, Passengers and witnesses began sharing accounts and videos on social mediaoffering early insight into the moments surrounding the crash.
Several passengers described a “violent jolt” upon landingconsistent with the timing of the collision. Others reported confusion in the cabin, with some initially believing the aircraft had experienced a hard landing or mechanical issue.
Videos circulating online — some still being verified — show extensive damage to the front of the aircraftwith the nose area heavily crushed. In several clips, passengers can be seen evacuating onto the runway as emergency crews responded within minutes.
Eyewitness descriptions also mention the aircraft appearing tilted after impactwhile dramatic posts referenced severe cockpit damage. While images confirm significant structural damage, officials caution that some online descriptions may be exaggerated.
Airport shutdown and widespread disruption
Following the crash, LaGuardia Airport was temporarily shut down, triggering a cascade of delays and cancellations across the New York region. Authorities urged travelers to expect continued disruptions.
Investigation underway
The US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched a full investigation, with a focus on:
- Air traffic control instructions
- Runway access coordination
- Emergency vehicle movements
The cause of the collision remains under investigation.
Industry implications
The incident is expected to intensify scrutiny runway incursion risksa persistent safety concern in global aviation. While rare, collisions involving aircraft and ground vehicles can have catastrophic consequences, particularly during landing or takeoff.