Crash at LaGuardia Airport: Investigation Underway

NEW YORK—Federal investigators reported on Tuesday that a runway warning system failed to alert air traffic controllers right before an Air Canada plane collided with a fire truck during landing at LaGuardia Airport.

During a news conference, National Transportation Safety Board Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy stated that the warning system did not function as expected because the fire truck was lacking a transponder. She emphasized that while the safety board hasn’t mandated transponders for airport vehicles, they are essential for safety.

“Air traffic controllers must be aware of everything on the airport surface or in the airspace to ensure safety,” Homendy said.

The Air Canada flight, carrying over 70 individuals, struck the fire truck during landing late Sunday night, resulting in the deaths of both pilots and injuries to several passengers. Most managed to exit the damaged aircraft, and a flight attendant who was secured in her seat survived after being thrown onto the runway.

It is still unclear whether the firefighters in the truck received last-minute warnings from the control tower to halt before entering the plane’s flight path, according to Homendy. Investigators have yet to interview the firefighters or ascertain if they attempted to brake or alter their course before the impact.

In addition, investigators are examining the actions of air traffic controllers during a late-night emergency involving another aircraft happening simultaneously. Homendy urged against hastily blaming the controllers, citing the challenging work environment and demanding workload.

Currently, LaGuardia has resumed flights, though the runway where the incident occurred remains closed. Approximately 25% of flights were canceled on Tuesday, with significant delays averaging over four hours. However, these cancellations were not affecting other airports across the U.S. The wreckage is expected to take days to clear as investigations continue, with authorities retrieving the flight data recorders from the aircraft.