New York City, NY (March 24, 2026) – An updated report confirms that two pilots who were killed in a crash involving an Air Canada jet and a fire truck at LaGuardia Airport on Sunday, March 22, have been identified. The incident happened on the airport’s runway, where the aircraft collided with the emergency vehicle during operations.
The victims have been identified as Antoine Forest and Mackenzie Gunther. Gunther, who served as the first officer, graduated from Seneca Polytechnic in 2023 with a degree in Aviation Technology and later joined Jazz Aviation. A published obituary described him as someone who will be deeply missed.
Forest, 30, was from Quebec, Canada, and had pursued aviation from a young age. A relative shared that he began flying at 16 and learned English to improve his chances of building a career in the field. Federal officials described both men as young professionals at the beginning of their careers.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as soon as they become available. We extend our sincere condolences to the families of the deceased.
What Details Are Typically Reviewed After an Airport Runway Crash?
After a runway crash involving an aircraft, early reviews often focus on how the aircraft and any ground vehicles came into contact. Timing, visibility, and communication between crew members and ground personnel are often examined closely.
Flight data recorders and cockpit voice recordings may provide insight into the moments leading up to the incident. These tools can help clarify decisions made during takeoff, landing, or ground movement.
The condition of the runway, vehicle positioning, and weather conditions may also be reviewed. In many cases, multiple systems are involved, and each piece of information helps build a clearer picture of how the crash occurred.