Mackenzie Gunther, a recent graduate and first officer on Air Canada Express Flight 8646, tragically died in a crash at LaGuardia Airport on March 22, 2026. Gunther had only recently begun his professional flying career through the Jazz Aviation Pathways Program after graduating from the Honours Bachelor of Aviation Technology (FPR) program at Seneca Polytechnic in 2023.
The flight, which was operating from Montreal to New York, collided with a fire truck just after landing. There were 72 passengers onboard, and four crew members, including Gunther and the captain, lost their lives in the incident. Initial reports indicate that the pilots were credited with minimizing the impact of the crash, potentially saving the lives of many passengers.
More than 40 individuals were taken to area hospitals due to injuries sustained in the crash. Witnesses have expressed their gratitude towards the pilots for their efforts during the emergency, with one passenger, Rebecca Liquori, stating, “I’m just so appreciative that they were able to save us, but I’m just so sad that they weren’t able to make it home to their families.” Another passenger, Joseph, added, “They deserve all the credit for being heroes that day.”
Gunther’s alma mater, Seneca Polytechnic, has announced that flags on their campuses will be flown at half-mast on March 24 in honor of their former student. The school expressed their condolences, stating, “Seneca sends our deepest condolences to Mr. Gunther’s family and friends, and to his former colleagues and professors. He will be deeply missed.” Cedric Forest, a family member, poignantly remarked, “Have a good flight, my brother! Oh yes, we’ve heard that phrase so many times, but this time, it’ll be the last.”
As investigations into the crash continue, officials are expected to release further details in the coming days. The aviation community mourns the loss of a promising pilot and reflects on the tragic events that unfolded at LaGuardia Airport.
