Two pilots killed after aircraft collides with fire truck at LaGuardia Airport

NEW YORK — Two pilots were killed when an Air Canada Express regional jet collided with a fire truck while landing at New York’s LaGuardia Airport, prompting a full shutdown of operations and an ongoing federal investigation.

The aircraft, a CRJ-900 arriving from Montreal, struck the emergency vehicle on Runway 4 shortly after touchdown, according to preliminary reports and flight-tracking data. The collision triggered a major emergency response and forced officials to halt all arrivals and departures at the airport.

The Federal Aviation Administration confirmed the airport closure and said a ground stop had been implemented to allow emergency crews to respond and investigators to assess the scene.

Audio recordings circulating online and early reconstructions suggest air traffic control had instructed both the flight crew and the ground vehicle to stop moments before the collision, though officials have not confirmed those details.

Unconfirmed reports citing the New York Fire Department indicated that at least five firefighters were seriously injured. More than 100 passengers on board the aircraft were also reported to have sustained injuries, though authorities have not released an official count or detailed the severity.

Emergency teams, including Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting units, remained on site as of Monday, working to secure the area and assist the injured.

The FAA said the airport could remain closed for an extended period, with one advisory to pilots indicating a possible shutdown until 18:00 GMT. Officials have not yet provided further details on the extent of the damage or the circumstances that led to the collision.

An investigation into the incident is underway. (Source: IANS)