An Air Canada jet struck a Port Authority rescue vehicle during landing at LaGuardia Airport in New York City, resulting in the deaths of the pilot and co-pilot. The incident occurred around 11:40 p.m. on Sunday on Runway 4.
Dramatic Air Traffic Control Audio
Audio from air traffic control captures the tense moments leading to the collision. Another flight reported an emergency on the opposite side of the airport, prompting the fire truck to receive permission to cross the active runway. Seconds later, the controller urgently intervenes.
‘Truck One, stop, stop, stop!’ the air traffic controller shouts. Moments after, the controller addresses the plane: ‘JAZZ 646, I see you collided with the vehicle. Just hold position. I know you can’t move. Vehicles are responding to you now.’
Aftermath and Damage
The Bombardier CRJ-900, operating as Air Canada Express flight JAZZ 646 from Montreal with 76 passengers and crew aboard, suffered severe nose damage. Its front section tilted upward on the tarmac. The Port Authority vehicle flipped on its side amid a rush of emergency responders.
Photos show Port Authority Police removing the front half of the aircraft from the runway overnight.
Immediate Response and Airport Impact
Emergency protocols activate instantly. ‘The Port Authority Police Department is on scene along with the agency’s Chairman and Executive Director,’ a Port Authority spokesman states. The department collaborates with airline partners and federal authorities for updates.
The New York Fire Department confirms crews respond to the aircraft-vehicle incident on Runway 4. The Federal Aviation Administration issues a ground stop at 11:50 p.m. EST, temporarily closing the airport amid rainy weather conditions.
Ongoing Investigation
The National Transportation Safety Board launches a probe into the collision. LaGuardia issues warnings of flight disruptions due to rain earlier that evening.
