CCTV video has revealed the sequence of events just before a catastrophic collision at LaGuardia Airport between an Air Canada aircraft and a fire truck.
The crash killed both the pilot and co-pilot. The pilot has been identified as Antoine Forest.
The Jazz Aviation-operated flight had landed in New York after a short journey from Montreal. After touching down, the plane had slowed to just under 30mph when it struck the stationary emergency vehicle.
There were 76 people onboard, including four crew members. In total, 41 people were taken to hospital, though 32 were later released.
The CCTV footage shows the Air Canada aircraft moving along the runway while a vehicle travels along the same stretch of tarmac in its path.
You can watch the moments before the crash below:
The fire truck had been responding to a separate incident involving an “aircraft operated by United that had reported an issue with odor” when the collision happened.
A Port Authority spokesperson said in a statement: “The pilot and co-pilot of the Jazz Aviation flight were pronounced deceased.
“Additionally, 41 people were transported to the hospital, 39 people on the aircraft and two ARFF officers.
“The National Transportation Safety Board is on site. The Port Authority Police Department is working closely with our airline partners as well as federal authorities, and will provide additional updates as more details become available.”
Forest was 30 years old. He joined Jazz Aviation as a pilot in 2022 and began flying at the age of 16.
Jazz Aviation President Doug Clarke said in a statement: “Today is an incredibly difficult day for our airline, our employees, and most importantly, the families and loved ones of those affected by the accident involving flight 8646.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of our two pilots and our unwavering support to those who have been injured.”
One of those hurt was flight attendant Solange Tremblay, who was thrown toward the front of the aircraft and later found still strapped into her jump seat.
CNN reported that she fell through a hole in the aircraft’s hull and was receiving treatment for her injuries.
Tremblay’s daughter, Sarah Lepine, said her mother sustained multiple bone fractures in the impact.
The two officers aboard the fire truck also survived the crash.
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact GrieveWell on (734) 975-0238, or email [email protected].