LaGuardia airport: 2 killed, dozens injured after Air Canada flight hits fire truck on runway

Key Points:

• A Port Authority Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighting (ARFF) vehicle collided with Air Canada Express flight 8646 at LaGuardia Airport Sunday night, killing both pilots and injuring dozens, including two ARFF officers who were hospitalized in stable condition.
• The ARFF vehicle was responding to a separate aircraft incident involving a reported odor when the collision occurred; air traffic controller audio reveals frantic attempts to stop the fire truck from crossing the runway prior to impact.
• The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are investigating the crash, with the Air Line Pilots Association providing support to families and pilots involved; LaGuardia Airport remained closed until at least 2 p.m. Monday for investigation.
• Surveillance footage of the collision has been handed over to the NTSB, and preliminary flight data indicates the plane was traveling about 104 mph on touchdown when it struck the fire truck, highlighting concerns about air traffic control workload and airport safety.
• Air Canada and Jazz Aviation are cooperating with authorities, with Air Canada setting up a hotline for affected passengers’ families; meanwhile, US officials including New York’s mayor and governor have expressed condolences and emphasized ongoing investigation efforts.