New York’s LaGuardia Airport was forced to suspend operations late on Sunday after an Air Canada aircraft collided with a firefighting vehicle responding to a separate emergency.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) imposed a ground stop at the airport, warning there was a “high” likelihood the measure would be extended as authorities assessed the situation.
According to CBS News, the aircraft had arrived from Montreal and had already landed. It was travelling at approximately 24mph when it struck a vehicle operated by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, which manages the airport.
Air Canada Aircraft Damaged After Runway Collision At LaGuardia
The aircraft involved, a CRJ 900 carrying around 70 passengers and crew, sustained significant damage in the collision.
Video footage circulating on social media showed the plane, operated by Air Canada’s regional partner Jazz Aviation, coming to a halt with its nose raised.
Early reports from local media indicate that several individuals were injured, though the extent of those injuries has not been fully confirmed.
A preliminary passenger manifest released by Jazz Aviation stated there were 76 people on board, including four crew members.
Emergency Response And Road Closures Cause Major Disruption
LaGuardia Airport confirmed the incident in an official statement, noting the aircraft “struck a Port Authority Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting vehicle that was responding to a separate incident”.
“Emergency response protocols were immediately activated. The Port Authority Police Department is on scene along with the agency’s Chairman and Executive Director,” the statement said.
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Authorities urged the public to avoid the area as emergency services responded. In a statement posted on X, the New York City Police Department said: “Due to an emergency incident at LaGuardia Airport, all streets and highway exits into the airport are closed until further notice.”
The New York City Fire Department also warned of disruption, stating: “Expect cancellations, road closures, traffic delays and emergency personnel near LaGuardia Airport. Use alternate routes.”
Investigation Underway Into LaGuardia Airport Incident
The National Transportation Safety Board has dispatched a team to investigate the cause of the collision.
Officials have yet to confirm how the aircraft and emergency vehicle came into contact, as inquiries continue into the sequence of events leading up to the incident.
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