An Air Canada aircraft struck a fire and rescue vehicle on the runway at LaGuardia Airport in New York City Sunday evening, resulting in airport closure.
Collision Details
According to two sources familiar with the matter, the aircraft collided with a fire and rescue vehicle responding to another incident on the runway around 11:47 PM local time (4:47 PM Polish time).
Initial reports from media outlets, citing information from emergency services, indicate that both pilots have died. At least two other individuals sustained broken limbs, but their condition is reported as stable.
Aircraft and Vehicle Information
NBC News reports the Air Canada plane, operating as Jazz Aviation and arriving from Montreal, was carrying 76 passengers and four crew members. The aircraft had completed its landing and was traveling at approximately 50 km/h when the collision occurred.
Authorities confirmed the involvement of a fire and rescue vehicle, reportedly operated by police officers.
Air Traffic Control Communication
Audio recordings published online reveal an air traffic controller granting clearance for an operational truck to cross the runway. Seconds later, the controller ordered the truck to stop immediately, then announced the collision.
“JAZZ 646, I see you’ve collided with a vehicle. Please hold position. I know you can’t move. Vehicles are responding to your signal,” the controller is heard saying on a recording from LiveATC.net.
Airport Conditions and Investigation
CNN reported that LaGuardia Airport had previously issued warnings about flight disruptions due to weather conditions, including light rain and fog in the area.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has announced it is gathering information to investigate the incident. Some operations and flights at the airport remain suspended.
The airport was temporarily closed following the incident.
