Air Canada Jazz Flight Collides with Fire Truck at LaGuardia Airport

On March 22, 2026, an Air Canada Jazz flight, designated Flight 8646, collided with a fire truck while landing at New York's LaGuardia Airport. The incident resulted in the tragic deaths of both the pilot, Antoine Forest, and the co-pilot. Nine individuals, including flight attendant Solange Tremblay, sustained injuries and were transported to local hospitals.

The Guardian

Solange Tremblay, who has worked as a flight attendant for Jazz Aviation for 26 years, survived the crash in what her daughter, Sarah Lépine, described as a "complete miracle." Tremblay was ejected over 100 meters from the aircraft while still strapped to her seat during the collision. She suffered multiple bone fractures and underwent surgery for a broken leg. Lépine expressed gratitude for her mother's survival, attributing it to a guardian angel.

The Guardian

In the moments leading up to the crash, air traffic control recordings revealed that controllers had given clearance for a vehicle to cross the runway but attempted to halt it as the aircraft approached. The recordings captured the urgency of the situation, with controllers expressing concern over the unfolding events. One controller remarked, “Stop, Truck 1. Stop,” while another later commented on the impact, stating, “It wasn’t good to watch.”

The Guardian

Jason Ambrosi, president of the Air Line Pilots Association, expressed condolences, stating, “The loss of our two fellow crew members onboard Flight 8646 is a profound tragedy.” He emphasized the dedication of the pilots to passenger safety and extended thoughts to their families and colleagues.

The Guardian

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney described the collision as “deeply saddening,” reflecting the national sentiment regarding the loss of life and the impact on the aviation community. Jazz Aviation, which operates under the Air Canada Express brand, has not released a formal statement regarding the incident but confirmed details through staff members.

The Guardian

While specific criticisms regarding the incident have not been detailed in the sources, the circumstances surrounding the clearance for the fire truck to cross the runway may prompt scrutiny of air traffic control protocols and safety measures at LaGuardia Airport.

The Guardian

There are no conflicting reports regarding the basic facts of the incident; however, further investigation may reveal additional details about the circumstances leading to the crash and the responses from emergency services.

The Guardian

• “It’s a complete miracle. At the moment of impact, her seat was ejected more than 100 metres from the plane. They found her and she was still strapped into her seat,” — Sarah Lépine, Daughter of Solange Tremblay

The Guardian

• “The loss of our two fellow crew members onboard Flight 8646 is a profound tragedy,” — Jason Ambrosi, President of the Air Line Pilots Association

The Guardian

• “Stop, Truck 1. Stop,” — Air Traffic Controller

The Guardian

• “wasn’t good to watch” — Air Traffic Controller

The Guardian

This incident highlights the critical importance of safety protocols in aviation and the profound impact of such tragedies on families and communities.

The Guardian