TORONTO (TNND) — An Air Canada flight attendant seriously injured in a runway collision at New York's LaGuardia Airport continues her recovery, according to family reports.
Solange Tremblay, a veteran crew member on Jazz Aviation Flight 8646, was found still strapped in her jump seat after being ejected over 320 feet from the wreckage during the March 22 incident. Her daughter, Sarah Lepine, stated on GoFundMe that Tremblay faces multiple surgeries for severe injuries, including two shattered legs and a fractured spine.
Lepine explained that her mother remains conscious but is at risk for infections that could lead to further complications. Over $185,000 has been raised through more than 2,100 donations to assist with medical costs and rehabilitation.
The collision occurred when the flight struck a Port Authority Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting vehicle on Runway 4, killing both pilots aboard the plane. Port Authority Executive Director Kathryn Garcia noted that this is the first fatal incident at LaGuardia in 34 years.
The fire truck was reportedly responding to an issue on a United Airlines flight when it crossed the runway. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) Chair Jennifer Homendy stated the incident involved multiple failures, including a malfunction of the ASDE-X runway warning system due to the fire truck lacking a transponder.
Investigators are looking into why the fire truck was present on the runway and whether air traffic control's urgent warnings were adequately heeded. Meanwhile, Air Canada CEO Michael Rousseau has announced his retirement following criticism over an English-only condolence message, prompting disappointment from officials, including Prime Minister Mark Carney.