LaGuardia Airport Collision: Pilots Killed as Air Canada Jet Hits Fire Truck

New York’s LaGuardia Airport was temporarily closed Monday, March 23, 2026, after an Air Canada jet collided with a Port Authority Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) vehicle on the runway. The crash, which occurred late Sunday night, resulted in the deaths of both pilots and injuries to dozens of passengers and crew members.

Details of the Collision

The incident involved an Air Canada regional jet, operating as Jazz Aviation flight 8646 from Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport. The aircraft struck the fire truck shortly before midnight, according to flight tracking website Flightradar24 . There were 72 passengers and four crew members on board the plane.

Casualties and Injuries

Tragically, both pilots were killed in the collision . A total of 41 passengers and crew members were transported to area hospitals, with 32 subsequently released. Some individuals sustained serious injuries . Two members of the fire truck crew were likewise hospitalized and listed in stable condition.

Airport Closure and Investigation

LaGuardia Airport was closed to facilitate the emergency response and a thorough investigation. The airport remained closed until at least 2 p.m. On Monday, March 23, 2026 . Flights from or to LaGuardia Airport at Montreal-Trudeau International Airport were canceled until 2 p.m. As well.

Investigators are currently on-site, examining the circumstances surrounding the collision. Audio recordings indicate an air traffic controller cleared a vehicle to cross the tarmac and then attempted to stop it before the impact .

Air Canada and Jazz Aviation Statements

Air Canada and Jazz Aviation have confirmed the incident and are cooperating with investigators. Jazz Aviation stated the preliminary passenger list indicates 72 passengers and 4 crew members were on board .

This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.