Updated March 23, 2026, 7:16 p.m. ET
Two pilots were killed in a collision between an Air Canada jet and a fire truck at LaGuardia Airport late on March 22.
The crash occurred during the landing of the Air Canada Express CRJ-900, which was carrying 72 passengers and four crew members from Montreal. Officials report that dozens of others sustained injuries, forcing the airport to temporarily close, according to multiple sources including Reuters and USA TODAY.
NTSB Struggles to Access Crash Site
Jennifer Homendy, Chair of the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), reported that logistical issues delayed their investigation team from reaching the site. Although they aim to deploy 25 staff, challenges with airport security lines hindered access.
The NTSB was able to recover the cockpit voice recorder and flight data module, both undamaged, which have been transported to their labs in Washington, D.C. Initial inspections revealed substantial debris on Runway 4, which is expected to remain closed for several days.
Authorities Provide Update
The incident marks LaGuardia's first fatal crash in 34 years, stated Kathryn Garcia, Executive Director of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. Two occupants of the fire truck were transported to New York-Presbyterian Hospital, with one expected to be released later on March 23; the other remains under observation.
Emergency personnel responded following an aborted takeoff by a United Airlines flight that reported an issue. The FAA is assisting the NTSB in the investigation.
LaGuardia Airport resumed operations at 2 p.m. on March 23, but with reduced capacity due to ongoing recovery efforts at the runway.
Air Traffic Control Audio Details
Audio from air traffic control reveals moments leading up to the collision as emergency responders were dispatched following the United Airlines flight's emergency declaration due to onboard odor.
Airport Status and Impacts
As of early afternoon, LaGuardia experienced over 600 flight cancellations, with delays reported at Newark Airport and JFK. Travelers are advised to check for updates as the investigation continues.