by Natasha Lair
Last updated: 10:00 AM ET, Wed March 25, 2026
Canada’s largest flight attendant union is expressing condolences following the fatal crash involving Air Canada Express Flight AC8646 at New York’s LaGuardia Airport.
In a statement issued this week, the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) said it is “sending its deepest sympathies to those impacted by the collision… in particular, the families and loved ones of the two pilots who passed away,” while also wishing “a fast recovery to everyone injured in the incident.”
The crash occurred late on March 22, when the Mitsubishi CRJ900, operated by Jazz Aviation LP on behalf of Air Canada, was landing at LaGuardia after departing Montréal. The aircraft was carrying 72 passengers and four crew members.
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As previously reported by TravelPulse Canada, Air Canada confirmed the deaths of the captain and first officer, while emphasizing its focus on supporting passengers, crew members and their families in the aftermath of the accident. The airline also thanked first responders and airport personnel who assisted at the scene.
CUPE, which represents approximately 20,000 flight attendants across 11 airlines in Canada, also extended its support to other unions involved.
“CUPE extends its solidarity to the Airline Pilots Association (ALPA) and the Canadian Flight Attendant Union (CFAU), who represent pilots and Jazz flight attendants respectively, and is offering any assistance in this difficult moment,” the statement said.
The union also acknowledged the actions of crew and emergency responders during the incident.
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“We salute the courage of the flight attendants and other first responders who responded bravely to this terrifying incident.”
The Transportation Safety Board of Canada and U.S. authorities, including the National Transportation Safety Board, are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. Early attention has focused on runway operations and air traffic control communications at the time of landing.
Air Canada has said it will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.
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