A passenger described pilot safety actions as crucial after a deadly runway collision at LaGuardia Airport in New York. The incident involved an Air Canada Express flight striking a firetruck during landing operations, leading to fatalities and multiple injuries. Investigators continue examining how the emergency developed on the runway.
The crash occurred at LaGuardia Airport in the United States during a late-night landing approach. Officials confirmed that the aircraft collided with a firetruck that entered the active runway during emergency response activity. The impact killed both pilots and injured more than forty passengers and crew members.
Passenger Rebecca Liquori said the flight experienced turbulence as it began its descent into New York. She explained that the landing felt unusually rough and passengers felt strong shaking inside the cabin. She also recalled hearing braking sounds as the aircraft tried to slow down before impact.
Liquori said the aircraft struck the firetruck moments after the rough landing sequence. She described a violent jolt that threw passengers forward in their seats during the collision. She added that the impact created chaos inside the cabin as emergency systems activated.
The passenger highlighted pilot safety actions that she believes helped reduce the overall loss of life. She said the pilots reacted quickly during the final seconds before the collision occurred. According to her account, those actions may have prevented a more severe disaster.
The aircraft involved was a regional jet operated by Jazz Aviation on behalf of Air Canada. Officials confirmed that seventy-two passengers and four crew members were onboard during the flight. Emergency crews responded immediately after the collision and secured the crash site.
The crash caused severe destruction to the cockpit area and significant damage to the aircraft’s structure. Authorities halted all operations at LaGuardia Airport shortly after the incident to begin investigations. Emergency responders worked through the night, assisting victims and clearing debris from the runway.
Aviation experts said the force of the impact suggested high speed at the time of collision. They noted that survival numbers might have been lower without effective crew responses. Experts also praised the pilots for handling a rapidly changing and dangerous situation.
Investigators are now reviewing runway access procedures and communication systems at the airport. Officials aim to determine how the firetruck entered the active runway during landing operations. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to prevent similar incidents in the future.
