LaGuardia Airport Shut Down After Fatal Air Canada Crash
LaGuardia Airport Closure
LaGuardia Airport in New York is currently closed due to a tragic incident involving an Air Canada aircraft that resulted in the deaths of two pilots. This accident has led to significant flight delays and cancellations across the New York City area. A ground stop at Newark Airport (EWR) has compounded travel disruptions as ICE agents are deployed and TSA wait times increase amid the ongoing government shutdown.
Disturbing footage has emerged showing an Air Canada Express jet colliding with a fire truck on the runway at LaGuardia on Sunday night. The fire truck was responding to an emergency call involving another aircraft when the collision occurred. Video captured from within the airport reveals the Air Canada plane continuing down the runway even after striking the truck, which was severely damaged. Prior to the crash, an air traffic controller was heard urgently instructing the truck to halt its movement, pleading, "Stop, stop, stop!"
In response to the incident, TSA Secretary Sean Duffy announced he was heading to LaGuardia, describing the crash as "horrific" in a post on social media, where he also shared an image from the scene. Audio from air traffic control, released by LiveATC, revealed a controller acknowledging a mistake after the Air Canada jet collided with the Port Authority vehicle.
🚨 HORROR FOOTAGE: Video shows Air Canada Flight AC8646 colliding with a Port Authority fire truck at LaGuardia Airport.Both pilots are dead. Dozens of passengers and two on the truck were injured.LGA remains closed as NTSB investigates. pic.twitter.com/QtV3CMs3Uz
— Breaking911 (@Breaking911) March 23, 2026
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed his condolences regarding the crash, calling it "deeply saddening" and confirmed that Canadian officials are collaborating with U.S. authorities during the investigation.
Is LaGuardia Airport Closed?
Yes, LaGuardia Airport remains closed today, March 23, following the fatal incident that claimed the lives of the pilot and co-pilot of the Air Canada jet. The collision with the Port Authority fire truck resulted in injuries to 41 individuals, some of whom are in serious condition. The crash occurred around 11:40 p.m. on March 22.
When Will LaGuardia Airport Reopen?
According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), LaGuardia Airport is anticipated to reopen around 2 p.m. ET. All terminals at LGA are currently closed, and TSA wait times are not available on the airport's website due to the ongoing closure.