At New York LaGuardia Airport, an Air Canada aircraft collided with a rescue vehicle during landing. Two Port Authority police officers were seriously injured in the accident, while flights were suspended.
Midnight Accident: Aircraft Hits Rescue Vehicle
According to sources, a serious accident occurred on Sunday night at LaGuardia Airport. A passenger aircraft belonging to Air Canada struck a rescue vehicle on the runway during landing. At least two Port Authority police officers were seriously injured in the incident.
Moment of the Incident: Runway Filled with Emergency Vehicles
According to a statement from the New York City Fire Department (FDNY), shortly before 23:40, after the regional jet arriving from Montreal hit a fire truck, Runway 4 of the airport was quickly filled with emergency response teams. Witnesses and footage revealed significant damage to the front section of the aircraft.
Injured Officers Were Part of Rescue Unit
It was stated that the police officers who were seriously injured in the accident were personnel of the Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Unit operating under the Port Authority Police Department. It was learned that the teams were on active duty at the time of the incident.
There Were 100 Passengers on Board
It was reported that there were approximately 100 passengers on board the Bombardier CRJ-900 aircraft involved in the accident, and that the passengers’ health conditions were brought under control. It was also stated that a group of Orthodox Jewish passengers traveling to the New York area was among those on board.
Severe Weather Conditions Were a Factor
It was stated that the aircraft, operated by Jazz Airlines, was involved in the accident while taxiing to its parking position under adverse weather conditions. Authorities announced that heavy rain and low visibility made operations difficult.
Airport Closed, Flights Suspended
Authorities announced that following the accident, flights were temporarily suspended by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the airport was closed. LaGuardia management had previously warned that poor weather conditions could disrupt operations.
Official Statement Expected
No official statement has yet been made by the FAA, Port Authority, or Air Canada officials regarding the accident. An investigation into the cause of the incident is expected to be launched.
