Recently released audio from air traffic control has shed light on the tragic moments leading up to a collision between a plane and a fire truck at LaGuardia Airport in New York. The incident, which took place late Sunday night, resulted in the deaths of two pilots and left at least 42 others injured.
In one recording, a distressed voice from air traffic control acknowledged, “We failed.” Just prior to the crash, controllers were heard discussing the urgent need for emergency vehicles on the tarmac and attempting to halt their movement. “Stop, Truck 1. Stop,” came the order over the radio, followed by repeated pleas to halt incoming aircraft.
As chaos unfolded, a controller warned that a vehicle was on the runway, frantically directing the aircraft to divert from landing. Another pilot who witnessed the scene spoke to the ground control, expressing concern: “It wasn’t nice to see that.” The controller acknowledged the situation, saying, “I was here. I tried to contact you…” The pilot offered reassurance, stating, “No, you did your best.”
The fire engines were responding to a separate issue that involved a United Airlines flight reporting an “odor issue.” The collision severely damaged the aircraft, resulting in the deaths of the pilot and co-pilot, while 39 other passengers and crew members were taken to local hospitals—some with serious injuries, although most have since been released.
The Federal Aviation Administration confirmed that Air Canada Express Flight 8646 collided with the fire vehicle after landing on Runway 4 around 11:45 p.m. The flight originated from Montreal, and both the FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board are currently investigating the incident.
Kathryn Garcia, executive director of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, noted that two Port Authority employees in the fire truck suffered injuries that aren’t considered life-threatening. She commented during a press conference that both deceased pilots were based in Canada.
The Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighting Force is operated by the Port Authority Police Department, where officers are required to hold FAA certification as aircraft rescue firefighters. Garcia indicated that fire trucks must receive permission from air traffic control to move on the runways and noted that a clearance given to the truck was later rescinded.
As investigators begin their work, LaGuardia Airport will remain closed until at least 2 p.m. on Monday. The aircraft involved had 72 passengers and four crew members aboard. Photos from the scene reveal severe damage to the front of the plane, with debris scattered and cables dangling from the broken cockpit.
Stairs were positioned at the emergency exit to help evacuate passengers, and the collision had caused the jet’s crumpled nose to tilt upward.
