Is LaGuardia Airport Closed? Air Canada Plane Crash Involving Ground Vehicles Causes Chaos, Confirmed Deaths So Far

LaGuardia Airport in New York City has been closed following a tragic collision between an Air Canada Express jet and a Port Authority firefighting vehicle, resulting in the deaths of two pilots.

The incident occurred late Sunday night when the aircraft, arriving from Montreal, struck a vehicle that was responding to a separate United Airlines aircraft emergency. Authorities confirmed that all 72 passengers aboard the jet have been accounted for, though several sustained serious injuries.

Emergency responders and law enforcement quickly secured the scene, while the airport issued a full ground stop, leaving travellers stranded and hundreds of flights cancelled well into Monday. The collision has sent shockwaves across the aviation community, highlighting the risks associated with airport runway operations and emergency procedures.

Images and video footage from the scene show the CRJ 900 aircraft with severe damage to the front, its nose upturned as it came to rest on the runway. The Port Authority vehicle involved was responding to a United Airlines flight when the collision occurred at 11:38pm. Firefighters, police officers, and airport personnel responded immediately to the crash, activating emergency protocols to contain the situation and provide aid to the injured.

Port Authority Executive Director Kathryn Garcia confirmed that the two officers inside the vehicle are in stable condition. She also noted that the airport closure is necessary to facilitate a thorough investigation. The incident has left roads leading into LaGuardia blocked and forced commuters to seek alternate routes. Authorities have urged the public to remain patient while flights are halted, with the airport expected to remain closed until at least 2:00pm ET (18:00 GMT).

Widespread Flight Disruption

The collision has caused significant disruption for travellers. FlightView reported over 400 cancelled flights, with additional flights delayed or rerouted to regional airports. Even after the airport reopens, long lines at security checkpoints are expected due to previous staffing shortages, compounded now by the incident. The airport's tweet confirmed: 'Emergency response protocols were immediately activated. The airport is currently closed to facilitate the response and allow for a thorough investigation.'

Passengers attempting to travel to or from LaGuardia face major inconveniences. Many airlines are working to rebook affected travellers, but disruptions are likely to continue into the evening. With flights paused and ground traffic blocked, the ripple effects of the crash will impact airports and travel schedules across the region.

Investigation Underway

Authorities, including the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), have launched a comprehensive investigation into the collision. Port Authority Executive Director Garcia explained that investigators will examine the speed of the aircraft at the time of impact, the staffing levels in the air traffic control tower, and whether anyone was ejected from the aircraft.

Preliminary reports indicate the collision occurred during emergency response procedures rather than due to pilot error. Garcia emphasised that the investigation is ongoing and that more updates will be provided as the situation develops.

The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the dangers present in busy airport environments and the critical importance of safety protocols during emergency situations. Families of the victims and those injured are receiving support, while the aviation industry watches closely as the investigation unfolds. LaGuardia Airport, one of New York City's busiest travel hubs, now faces the challenge of resuming operations safely while addressing the aftermath of a devastating incident.