Mar 23 • 09:01 UTC 🇳🇴 Norway Aftenposten

Pilot and co-pilot dead, nine people in hospital

A tragic collision between an Air Canada regional jet and a fire truck at LaGuardia Airport in New York resulted in the deaths of the pilot and co-pilot, with nine passengers hospitalized.

A serious incident occurred at LaGuardia Airport in New York when an Air Canada Express Bombardier CRJ-900 collided with a fire truck shortly after landing. The New York fire department and police confirmed that two individuals, the pilot and co-pilot of the aircraft, died in the crash. In addition to the fatalities, two firefighters who were in the truck were injured, and reports indicate that nine passengers from the flight have been hospitalized as a result of the incident.

The fire truck was responding to an emergency call regarding an unknown odor in the cockpit of another aircraft on the tarmac when the collision took place. Communication recordings from the control tower revealed that the fire truck was granted permission to cross the runway moments before the tragic accident occurred. Seconds later, air traffic control audibly called for the vehicle to stop, indicating that there may have been a failure in coordination that contributed to the crash.

The incident has prompted an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision. With the ongoing investigation, authorities will likely examine communication protocols, procedural adherence, and possible mechanical failures that may have contributed to the tragic event. This crash highlights the crucial need for clear protocols and communication between ground services and flight operations to ensure the safety of all individuals at busy airports like LaGuardia.

📡 Similar Coverage