Firetruck Warned Seconds Before Fatal LaGuardia Crash

New details have emerged about the final seconds before the deadly runway collision at New York’s LaGuardia Airport, revealing that a firetruck was warned to stop twice shortly before impact with an Air Canada Express jet, though it remains unclear whether the crew heard the instructions.

According to the National Transportation Safety Board, the aircraft rescue and firefighting vehicle crossed Runway 4 just as the Bombardier CRJ-900 was on final approach. Investigators said the first warning to stop was issued approximately nine seconds before the collision, followed by a second warning about five seconds later, based on cockpit voice recorder data.

NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy said it is still unknown whether the firetruck crew, who survived the incident, heard the warnings. She also confirmed that the vehicle was not equipped with a transponder, limiting its visibility on air traffic surveillance systems.

Investigators also revealed that LaGuardia’s Airport Surface Detection Equipment, Model X (ASDE-X), a system designed to track aircraft and ground vehicles and provide runway conflict alerts, did not generate a warning prior to the crash. Officials said the system was unable to establish a high-confidence track due to the rapid movement and proximity of the aircraft and vehicle.

At the time of the incident, two air traffic controllers were working in the tower, handling multiple responsibilities as part of standard overnight operations. The Federal Aviation Administration confirmed that there is currently no indication that fatigue played a role, although the investigation remains ongoing.

The crash resulted in the deaths of both pilots, identified as Captain Antoine Forest and First Officer Mackenzie Gunther. Dozens of passengers and two emergency responders were also injured, though most have since been released from hospital.

The firetruck had been responding to a separate incident involving another aircraft that reported an unusual odor after multiple aborted takeoff attempts. Authorities are still working to determine the exact actions of the vehicle crew in the moments leading up to the collision.

The investigation continues to focus on communication, situational awareness, and the role of surveillance technology, with findings expected to shape future safety recommendations aimed at preventing similar runway incidents.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, yahoo.com