‘Very Somber Day’: Air Canada CEO Mourns Fatal Plane Crash, Says Circumstances Are Being Assessed

Last Updated:March 24, 2026, 06:24 IST

Air Canada Express CRJ 900 from Montreal hits fire truck at LaGuardia Airport New York killing two pilots.

Air Canada President and CEO, Michael Rousseau, expressed his grief and sorrow over the plane crashing incident in New York that claimed the lives of two pilots.

In a video statement released on X, Rousseau described the incident as “a very somber day" for the airline, extending condolences to all those affected. “First, and most importantly, I want to express our deepest sorrow for everyone affected. Our efforts are focused on the needs of our passengers and crew members, along with their families and loved ones," he said.

Rousseau confirmed that both the captain and first officer were killed in the accident. “"We now know that the captain and the first officer were killed in this accident. We are deeply saddened by the loss of two jazz employees, and our deepest condolences go out to the entire jazz community and their families," he said.

He added that authorities are still working to determine the number of injuries and whether there were additional fatalities.

Rousseau further claimed that emergency response efforts were ongoing, with Air Canada activating its Special Assistance Team to support passengers and their families. He said that the airline is also working closely with investigative authorities to determine the cause of the incident.

“We are actively working with all relevant authorities on emergency response efforts. We’re fully supporting the relevant investigative authorities in their investigation to learn everything we can about these events. While that work will take time, anything we can do now, we’re doing. And right now, that means focusing on taking care of those impacted by this incident, including their families," he added.

A dedicated helpline has been established for families seeking information. Rousseau assured that updates will be shared as soon as they are verified, urging the public to rely on official channels.

“Our team of highly trained professionals will work around the clock to support our customers, their families, and our crew and their families in every way we can," he said.

Air Canada Express CRJ-900 flight with 72 passengers and four crew members was arriving from Montreal when it slammed into a fire truck at New York’s LaGuardia Airport.

The aircraft sustained severe damage to its cockpit.

Several videos of the collision emerged on social media showing evacuation and rescue operations underway at the airport. According to images, the front of the commuter plane was smashed and was seen tilting in the air.

According to reports, the fire truck was responding to an “separate incident".

Reuters quoted Kathryn Garcia, the executive director of the Port ​Authority of New York and New Jersey, saying that the fire truck was responding to a separate United Airlines aircraft that had “reported an issue with odour".

News world ‘Very Somber Day’: Air Canada CEO Mourns Fatal Plane Crash, Says Circumstances Are Being Assessed

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