Deadly Collision at LaGuardia Airport Leaves 2 Pilots Dead

Air Canada Express jet strikes Port Authority firefighting vehicle, causing chaos and flight disruptions

Mar. 23, 2026 at 10:20am

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A tragic collision at LaGuardia Airport in New York City between an Air Canada Express jet and a Port Authority firefighting vehicle has resulted in the deaths of two pilots, causing widespread flight disruptions. The incident occurred late Sunday night when the aircraft, arriving from Montreal, struck the emergency response vehicle that was responding to a separate United Airlines aircraft emergency. All 72 passengers aboard the jet have been accounted for, though several sustained serious injuries.

Why it matters

The collision has sent shockwaves across the aviation community, highlighting the risks associated with airport runway operations and emergency procedures. The incident has caused significant disruption for travelers, with over 400 flights cancelled and long delays expected even after the airport reopens.

The details

Emergency responders and law enforcement quickly secured the scene, while the airport issued a full ground stop, leaving travelers stranded and hundreds of flights cancelled well into Monday. Images and video footage from the scene show the CRJ 900 aircraft with severe damage to the front, its nose upturned as it came to rest on the runway. The Port Authority vehicle involved was responding to a United Airlines flight when the collision occurred at 11:38pm.

  • The incident occurred late Sunday night at around 11:38pm.
  • The airport is expected to remain closed until at least 2:00pm ET (18:00 GMT) on Monday.

The players

LaGuardia Airport

One of New York City's busiest travel hubs, now facing the challenge of resuming operations safely while addressing the aftermath of a devastating incident.

Air Canada Express

The airline operating the jet involved in the collision with the Port Authority firefighting vehicle.

Port Authority

The agency responsible for the firefighting vehicle that was involved in the collision with the Air Canada Express jet.

Kathryn Garcia

The Port Authority Executive Director who confirmed the incident details and ongoing investigation.

National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB)

The agency that has launched a comprehensive investigation into the collision.

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What they’re saying

“We must examine the speed of the aircraft at the time of impact, the staffing levels in the air traffic control tower, and whether anyone was ejected from the aircraft.”

— Kathryn Garcia, Port Authority Executive Director

What’s next

Authorities, including the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), have launched a comprehensive investigation into the collision. The investigation is ongoing, and more updates will be provided as the situation develops.

The takeaway

This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers present in busy airport environments and the critical importance of safety protocols during emergency situations. The aviation industry will be closely watching as the investigation unfolds to determine how to improve runway safety and emergency response procedures.