A late-night arrival at New York’s LaGuardia Airport turned into a harrowing scene as an Air Canada Express jet collided with a Port Authority vehicle on the runway. The incident unfolded shortly before midnight on Sunday, bringing all airport operations to a standstill.
The regional jet, a CRJ-900 operated by Jazz Aviation, had just touched down after a flight from Montreal. Impact occurred at approximately 24 miles per hour, sending shockwaves through the airport and triggering an immediate emergency response.
Seventy-two passengers and four crew members were aboard Flight 8646, though the final passenger count remained subject to confirmation in the immediate aftermath. The collision involved a Port Authority Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting vehicle, a unit dedicated to responding to airport emergencies.
The Federal Aviation Administration swiftly issued a ground stop, halting all flights into and out of LaGuardia. Arriving planes were either diverted to alternative airports or instructed to return to their points of origin, creating widespread disruption.
Initial reports indicate the Port Authority vehicle was responding to a separate incident when the collision occurred on Runway 4. Emergency protocols were activated instantly, bringing a massive response from police, fire departments, and airport officials.
Dramatic video footage quickly surfaced, revealing significant damage to the front of the aircraft. The extent of the damage underscored the force of the impact and fueled concerns for those on board.
The U.S. Secretary of Transportation’s office confirmed the crash, emphasizing the presence of the flight crew – the Captain, First Officer, and two flight attendants – among the passengers. The situation was described as rapidly evolving.
A specialized “go team” from the National Transportation Safety Board was dispatched to LaGuardia to launch a full investigation. Investigators will meticulously examine the circumstances surrounding the collision, seeking to determine the cause and prevent future incidents.
The Port Authority Police Department is leading the investigation, working in close coordination with airline partners and federal authorities. Updates were promised as more details become available, acknowledging the complexity of the unfolding situation.
The incident prompted a massive response from the New York Fire Department and the New York City Police Department, both of whom confirmed the collision and deployed resources to the scene. The airport remained closed to facilitate the investigation and ensure the safety of all involved.
