Air Canada Express jet collides with fire truck at LaGuardia, “I messed up”

A Canada‑based regional jet operated by Jazz Aviation LP, flying as Air Canada Express, collided with a fire truck shortly after touching down on Runway 4 at New York’s LaGuardia Airport Sunday night. The incident involved a Bombardier CRJ‑900 jet, flight ID AC8646.

The aircraft arrived at LaGuardia from Montréal‑Pierre‑Elliott Trudeau International Airport at approximately 11:47 p.m. EDT Sunday night.

According to a preliminary passenger manifest, the flight was carrying 72 passengers and four crew members, though the airline has said these figures are subject to verification.

Shortly after the aircraft’s wheels contacted the runway, the CRJ‑900 is reported to have struck the fire truck that was positioned on the active runway for emergency service duties.

Moments after the collision, an air traffic controller is heard in audio recordings saying, “I messed up.”

The airport remained closed for the remainder of the night as emergency crews secured the scene, tended to any injuries, and began a preliminary assessment of damage to both the aircraft and the firefighting vehicle.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will investigate the accident. The NTSB oversees the investigation and will provide all updates.

In a post on X early Monday morning, the FAA said the airport remains closed.

Update from Jazz Aviation

Officials with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey confirmed that the pilot and the first officer were killed in this accident. Jazz Aviation said they are deeply saddened by the loss of two employees and are working to support their families and colleagues during this difficult time.

"Today is an incredibly difficult day for our airline, our employees, and most importantly, the families and loved ones of those affected by the accident involving flight 8646," said Doug Clarke, president, Jazz Aviation LP. "We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of our two pilots and our unwavering support to those who have been injured.

"As the investigation unfolds, we are fully committed to cooperating with the relevant authorities to determine what happened. We will share updates as soon as verified information becomes available. We will continue to provide our full support in the days and weeks ahead."