Tragic Crash at LaGuardia Airport: What You Need to Know

Mon Mar 23 2026 19:24:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

An Air Canada jet collided with a fire truck while landing at LaGuardia Airport in New York, resulting in two fatalities and multiple injuries.

A serious incident occurred Sunday night at LaGuardia Airport when an Air Canada regional jet coming from Montreal hit a fire truck on the runway. The pilot and copilot lost their lives, while around 40 individuals, including passengers and crew, were hospitalized with various injuries. The airport remains closed as investigations continue, adding to travel woes during a government shutdown affecting air traffic operations.

NEW YORK (AP) — A jet landing at New York City’s LaGuardia Airport collided with a fire truck on the runway, killing the pilot and copilot and injuring several others. Here’s what you need to know:

What happened?

The crash occurred around 11:45 p.m. on Sunday when an Air Canada regional jet arriving from Montreal struck an airport fire truck. Audio recordings from the airport indicate the truck was initially cleared to cross the runway.

Photos from the aftermath show the jet’s nose crushed and tilted upward, with debris hanging from the mangled cockpit. Emergency evacuation stairways were pushed against the jet’s emergency exits.

Who was hurt or killed?

The pilot and copilot were the only confirmed fatalities, both based in Canada. About 40 other passengers and crew members were taken to the hospital, some with serious injuries, but most have since been released.

How is air travel impacted?

LaGuardia Airport was shut down following the crash, and all air traffic was diverted. It is expected to remain closed until at least Monday afternoon, complicating the travel plans at a busy time for spring break.

Did the government shutdown play a role?

While air traffic controllers are considered essential workers and continued in their roles during the current government shutdown, many have faced significant stress. Previous shutdowns were known to impact the operational efficiency of airport services.