Mackenzie Gunther was a recent graduate who began his professional flying career through the Jazz Aviation Pathways Program. Tragically, on March 22, 2026, Gunther, serving as the first officer on Air Canada Express Flight 8646, lost his life in a crash at LaGuardia Airport, New York.
The flight, which was traveling from Montreal to New York, collided with a fire truck just after landing. There were 72 passengers onboard, along with four crew members, including Gunther and the captain, Antoine Forest, both of whom died in the incident. The crash resulted in injuries to more than 40 people, highlighting the severity of the situation.
Gunther graduated from the Honours Bachelor of Aviation Technology program at Seneca Polytechnic in 2023 and was employed by Jazz Aviation immediately after graduation. His school expressed their sorrow, 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.” Flags on Seneca’s campuses will be flown at half-mast on March 24 in his honor.
Witnesses and survivors of the crash praised the pilots for their actions during the emergency. Rebecca Liquori, a passenger, remarked, “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.” Joseph, another survivor, added, “They deserve all the credit for being heroes that day.”
The loss of Gunther and Forest has deeply affected their community, with Cedric Forest, Antoine’s brother, reflecting on the tragedy, saying, “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 continue, officials are expected to provide further updates on the circumstances surrounding the crash. The aviation community mourns the loss of two dedicated professionals who made the ultimate sacrifice while ensuring the safety of their passengers.