A deadly ground collision involving a regional Air Canada jet and an airport vehicle occurred late Sunday at LaGuardia Airport, resulting in two fatalities, dozens of injuries, and a temporary shutdown of the busy travel hub. The aircraft, operating as Air Canada Flight 8646 and managed by Jazz Aviation, had just arrived from Montreal when it struck a Port Authority rescue and firefighting vehicle on the runway around 11:47 p.m.
The plane, carrying 72 passengers and four crew members, suffered severe damage to its front section upon impact. Emergency responders rushed to the scene, transporting at least 41 people to nearby hospitals, including passengers and two Port Authority officers. Most of the injured were later treated and released, though several remained hospitalized. Authorities said the injured officers were in stable condition.
Tragically, both the pilot and co-pilot were killed in the crash. Officials have not yet released their identities, pending notification of their families. Despite the severity of the incident, all passengers were accounted for, including an unaccompanied minor who was safely reunited with relatives.
Preliminary reports indicate the aircraft had landed on Runway 4 and was slowing down when the collision occurred. Air traffic control audio suggests the rescue vehicle had been cleared to cross the runway but was later urgently instructed to stop. Why it remained in the aircraft’s path is now a central question.
The National Transportation Safety Board has launched an investigation, focusing on communications, vehicle movement procedures, and possible human or mechanical errors. The airport was temporarily closed, causing flight diversions to nearby hubs like John F. Kennedy International Airport.
Officials say the priority now is supporting victims and determining how this rare but serious runway incident occurred.
