One of the two Air Canada pilots involved in fatal collision with fire truck named

One of the two pilots killed in the deadly collision involving an Air Canada aircraft at New York’s LaGuardia Airport has been identified as 30-year-old Captain Antoine Forest.

Forest was among the victims after the Air Canada Express flight, operated by Jazz Aviation, struck a fire truck on the runway late Sunday evening.

The aircraft had arrived from Montreal and was reportedly travelling at around 24mph when the collision occurred.

One named as both pilots die in tragic Air Canada crash

The fire vehicle, operated by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, had been responding to a separate issue involving another aircraft when the crash happened.

There were 76 people onboard Flight 8646, including four crew members.

Dozens were injured in the incident, with 41 people taken to hospital.

Many have since been discharged. Both pilots, however, tragically died as a result of the crash.

Confirming the fatalities, Port Authority Executive Director Kathryn Garcia said: “Sadly, the two pilots are confirmed deceased and notifications are being made by Air Canada’s care team at this time.”

Forest, who was from Coteau-du-Lac in Quebec, had been flying professionally with Jazz Aviation for four years.

According to family members, his passion for aviation began early in life, at the age of 16.

His great aunt, Jeannette Gagnier, told the Toronto Star: “He was always taking courses and flying. He never stopped.”

In a statement following the tragedy, Jazz Aviation President Doug Clarke said: “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.”

Despite the severity of the crash, the two firefighters inside the truck survived and are reported to be in stable condition.

Investigation underway after dozens injured in collision

An investigation into the incident is now underway, with authorities expected to examine factors such as the aircraft’s speed, air traffic control operations, and the circumstances leading up to the collision.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney also paid tribute, writing: “The collision involving an Air Canada Express aircraft last night in New York that claimed the lives of the pilot and co-pilot, and injured dozens more, is deeply saddening.

“Canadian officials are working closely with their U.S. counterparts on the ground as the investigation continues. My thoughts are with the victims, their families, and all those impacted.”

Air Canada, which was named one of the safest airlines to travel with in 2025, with Sunday’s crash being just the ninth accident in the air passenger carrier’s 88-year history and the first since 2015's Flight 624.

Featured Image. Credit Antoine Forest/Facebook