The CRJ900 aircraft, which was being operated by Jazz Aviation on behalf of Air Canada Regional, was en route from Montreal carrying 72 passengers and four crew.

The New York and New Jersey port authority and LaGuardia airport said the fire engine had been responding to a separate incident at the airport when the collision happened at around 11.40pm.

LaGuardia is currently expected to remain closed until at least 2pm local time on Monday (23 March) according to the US Federal Aviation Administration, which has stressed an initial ground stop order is likely to be extended.

NBC News has reported the deaths of the pilot and co-pilot, and confirmed dozens of others were injured in the incident.

In a statement, Jazz Aviation said: "Jazz Aviation LP, operating as Air Canada Express, confirms an incident involving AC8646 operated by a CRJ900 has occurred at LaGuardia.

"Flight 8646 was en route to LGA from Montreal (YUL). The preliminary passenger list indicates the aircraft was carrying 72 passengers and four crew members, although this is subject to confirmation. The incident occurred at approximately 11.47pm on March 22, 2026."