Two D£ad After Air Canada Jet Collides with Vehicle at LaGuardia Airport

A tragic incident occurred at LaGuardia Airport after an Air Canada Express regional jet collided with a ground vehicle shortly after landing, resulting in two fatalities and forcing the airport to temporarily shut down.

According to data from Flightradar24, the CRJ-900 aircraft had arrived from Montreal when it struck the Port Authority vehicle at approximately 24 miles per hour just before midnight on March 22, 2026.

During a press briefing, Kathryn Garcia confirmed that two pilots lost their lives in the collision.

She also revealed that more than 40 passengers, crew members, and Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) personnel were taken to hospital.

“At this time, we understand that 32 have been released, but there are also serious injuries.

“Sadly, the two pilots are confirmed deceased and notifications are being made by Air Canada’s care team at this time,” she said.

The flight, operated by Jazz Aviation, was identified as Flight 8646, travelling from Montréal (YUL) to New York. Preliminary reports indicate that the aircraft was carrying 72 passengers and four crew members at the time of the incident.

Following the crash, the Federal Aviation Administration issued a ground stop for all flights at the airport, citing an emergency situation. Authorities later announced that the airport would remain closed until at least 2 p.m. on Monday.

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