A firefighter at LaGuardia Airport reported hearing someone shout 'stop, stop, stop' moments before a deadly collision between an Air Canada jet and a Port Authority firetruck, but he was unsure who issued the warning. The incident occurred Sunday night in New York, leaving several injured and prompting a federal investigation.
The firefighter, who was on duty at the time, testified that the urgent commands echoed through the radio but were too late to prevent the crash. The Air Canada plane had just landed when it struck the firetruck, which was responding to a separate emergency. Officials are examining communication protocols and runway safety measures.
Investigation Details
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched a probe into the collision, focusing on air traffic control communications and vehicle positioning. Preliminary reports suggest the firetruck may have been on the active runway without proper clearance.
Port Authority officials expressed condolences and vowed to cooperate fully. The firefighter, who requested anonymity, described the chaos and confusion in the moments leading up to the impact.
Broader Implications
This incident raises concerns about airport ground safety, especially at busy hubs like LaGuardia. Similar near-misses have been reported globally, prompting calls for enhanced technology to prevent runway intrusions.
Meanwhile, the injured firefighter and passengers are recovering, with no fatalities reported. The airline has offered support to those affected.
