Photo: Shutterstock Air Canada CEO Michael Rousseau addressed the fatal accident that occurred at LaGuardia Airport in New York for the first time, confirming that two pilots were killed in the incident.
"Today is a very somber day at Air Canada,” Russo said in an official statement. “Our deepest sorrow for everyone affected. Our efforts are focused on the needs of our passengers and crew members along wth their families and loved ones. We know this is a difficult day for everyone.”
As a reminder, flight AC8646 was operated yesterday by Jazz Aviation for Air Canada, on a CRJ900 aircraft, en route from Montreal to New York. The aircraft carrier 72 passengers and 4 crew members onboard (76 people in total).
According to Rousseau, the captain and first officer were killed in the accident. “We are deeply saddened by the loss of two Jazz employees, and our deepest condolences go out to their entire Jazz community and their families,” he said.
Jazz Aviation president Doug Clarke: “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.”
At this time, the company is still working with US authorities to confirm the full extent of the damage, including the number of injuries and whether there are additional fatalities.
Air Canada has deployed special assistance teams for passengers and their families, and has also opened a dedicated emergency line for relatives of the passengers. At the same time, the company's professional teams are on their way to New York to provide on-the-ground support.
“There are many questions, but at this early stage we do not have all the answers,” Rousseau emphasized, adding that the company is cooperating fully with the investigation.
Air Canada stated that they will update the public as the investigation progresses, and only after approval from the authorities.