Operations at New York’s LaGuardia Airport came to a standstill when an Air Canada Express CRJ-900 aircraft collided with a ground vehicle on Runway 4, prompting an emergency response and a complete ground stop. The aircraft, which was arriving from Montreal, struck a fire truck during landing, as per initial reports and flight-tracking data.
The Federal Aviation Administration confirmed the closure of the airport and the implementation of a ground stop order after the collision between the aircraft and the emergency vehicle. Online audio recordings and preliminary visual reconstructions indicate that air traffic control had instructed both the flight crew and the ground vehicle to stop moments before the impact.
Unconfirmed reports from the New York Fire Department suggest that at least five firefighters sustained serious injuries, while over 100 passengers on the aircraft also suffered injuries. Emergency response teams, including Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) units, are currently on-site.
Initial information reveals multiple injuries among firefighters and passengers, with some in critical condition, although final figures have not been released by officials. Following the incident, the Federal Aviation Administration enforced a ground stop on all flights at the airport to aid emergency operations and initiate an investigation into the collision’s cause.
The FAA announced the airport’s closure due to an emergency, hinting at a potential prolonged shutdown without specifying details. Pilots were advised that the airport might remain closed until 18:00 GMT. However, no information has been disclosed regarding injuries or the extent of damage incurred.
