LaGuardia Airport shut down for hours following a late-night collision between an Air Canada Express regional jet and a Port Authority Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting vehicle on Sunday, March 23, 2026. The incident, which occurred shortly before midnight, resulted in the deaths of the flight's pilot and co-pilot. Several other individuals were injured, including two Port Authority officers on the ground vehicle.
The collision happened as the plane was landing, striking a fire truck that had been granted permission to cross the runway to respond to a separate incident involving a United flight. The impact severely damaged the front of the aircraft, and operations at the airport were suspended until Monday afternoon for an investigation.
Critical Sequence Under Scrutiny
Initial reports and air traffic control audio suggest a chaotic scene leading up to the impact. Transmissions indicate a frantic warning from an air traffic controller urging the fire truck to "stop, stop, stop" before the collision. The NTSB is investigating the circumstances, including the response of the air traffic control tower. Evidence collected includes surveillance video and tower audio recordings.
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Aftermath and Impact
The LaGuardia Airport closure caused significant disruption to air travel, with passengers facing delays and cancellations throughout Monday. 41 people were hospitalized as a result of the crash, though the injuries sustained by the Port Authority officers were not described as life-threatening. Passengers on board the Air Canada flight described a harrowing experience, with some assisting each other to evacuate. A female flight attendant, reportedly thrown from her seat, survived the incident.
Background and Ongoing Investigation
The aircraft, a Bombardier CRJ-900, was operating as an Air Canada flight from Montreal with 72 passengers and four crew members. The Port Authority vehicle involved was responding to an odor report on a different aircraft. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has taken the lead in the investigation. Authorities are examining various factors, including whether the airport's ASDE (Airport Surface Detection Equipment) generated alerts prior to the collision. The investigation is expected to be thorough.
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