TORONTO (TNND) — A flight attendant injured in a deadly runway collision at LaGuardia Airport is recovering in a New York hospital, facing multiple surgeries and a lengthy rehabilitation.
Solange Tremblay, a crew member on Jazz Aviation Flight 8646, was ejected from the aircraft during the March 22 incident. Her daughter, Sarah Lepine, confirmed that Tremblay was found over 320 feet from the wreckage, still restrained in her jump seat.
Tremblay sustained severe injuries, including two shattered legs that require multiple surgeries with metal plates, as well as a fractured spine. As of Monday, over $185,000 has been raised through a GoFundMe campaign to assist with her recovery.
Both pilots of the aircraft were killed in the collision with a Port Authority Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting vehicle on Runway 4. Port Authority Executive Director Kathryn Garcia noted this was the first fatal incident at the airport in 34 years.
The fire truck was reportedly responding to an emergency call concerning a United Airlines flight when the collision occurred. According to National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) Chair Jennifer Homendy, initial investigations suggest multiple failures contributed to the incident, particularly issues with the ASDE-X runway warning system, which the fire truck did not have.
Investigators are examining why the fire truck was on the runway as the plane approached and the actions of air traffic controllers during the incident.
In related news, Air Canada CEO Michael Rousseau announced his retirement after backlash regarding his English-only statement of condolence following the crash. Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed disappointment in Rousseau's handling of the situation and emphasized the need for compassionate communication.