NEW YORK (AP) — In a significant update to the investigation surrounding Sunday’s collision between an Air Canada plane and a fire truck at LaGuardia Airport, the airline announced on Wednesday that only four passengers who sustained injuries remain hospitalized. The crash resulted in the tragic deaths of two pilots and extensive injuries to approximately 40 others.
The Air Canada aircraft, which took off from Montreal, was carrying 76 individuals when it collided with the fire truck that had mistakenly entered the runway. Just moments before the crash, an air traffic controller had cleared the truck to cross.
As of now, crews have begun the process of moving the damaged aircraft, which had been blocking one of the airport's busiest runways since the incident. The removal efforts commenced around 5 p.m. Wednesday, with teams working to clear the wreckage and right the overturned fire truck.
Much of the aircraft's wreckage remained stationary on the tarmac since the accident, creating significant operational challenges at the airport. The tail end of the plane was lifted onto a dolly for towing while repair teams worked to safely manage the remaining debris.
Reflecting on the incident, passenger Clément Lelièvre praised the pilots' rapid response, stating that their quick reflexes played a crucial role in saving lives. Meanwhile, Air Canada has committed to facilitating the return of passengers' luggage and personal belongings following the unfortunate event.
As the recovery operations continue, further details about the four passengers still hospitalized have yet to be disclosed.
