Washington, March 23 (NationPress) - Air Canada’s CEO, Michael Rousseau, has introduced a specialized helpline and an assistance team for families following a tragic runway incident at LaGuardia Airport in New York, which resulted in the deaths of two pilots and injuries to many others.

"Today is a very solemn day for Air Canada," Rousseau expressed on Monday, adding, "We extend our heartfelt condolences to all those affected."

The aircraft, known as Air Canada Express Flight AC8646, was en route from Montreal when it collided with a Port Authority fire truck during its landing late Sunday. This led to a significant emergency response and temporarily halted operations at one of the busiest airports in the United States.

Rousseau emphasized that the airline's immediate priority is to support the passengers, crew, and their families.

"Our resources are dedicated to assisting our passengers and crew members, along with their families and loved ones," he remarked.

In light of the incident, the airline has activated its Special Assistance Team and established a helpline to provide information to families.

"We are doing everything we can at this moment," Rousseau stated.

The flight, operated by Jazz Aviation, had 72 passengers and four crew members on board, totaling 76 individuals.

Rousseau confirmed, "We have learned that the aircraft's Captain and First Officer lost their lives in this tragic event."

Authorities reported that at least 41 passengers and crew were transported to hospitals, with many later discharged, although some sustained serious injuries.

Two individuals in the fire truck were also hospitalized but are reported to be in stable condition.

Officials noted that the fire truck was responding to an unrelated incident involving another aircraft and was crossing the runway at the time of the collision.

Just moments after, the Air Canada plane made contact with the truck.

Air traffic control communications captured the urgency, with a controller urgently shouting, "Truck One, stop, stop, stop!" just seconds before the impact.

Images from the scene displayed significant damage to the aircraft's nose, with debris scattered across the runway.

Emergency response vehicles filled the area as rescue operations continued throughout the night.

Rousseau stated that the airline is collaborating closely with authorities and will provide updates as they become available.

"We are fully committed to assisting the relevant investigative authorities as they seek to understand these events," he added.

The Federal Aviation Administration implemented a ground stop at LaGuardia, which remained closed for several hours, resulting in over 500 flight cancellations.

Officials indicated that the crash occurred around 11:40 p.m. ET, with preliminary data suggesting the aircraft was traveling at high speed just before the collision.

US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy expressed his condolences, stating that his "thoughts are with the families impacted", while Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney described the incident as "deeply saddening."

A passenger recounted the experience, saying, "It felt as if the plane jolted, and you could hear the pilot attempting to brake."

Air Canada has pledged to release further details as they are verified and urged the public to depend on official updates.