Mackenzie Gunther was a recent graduate who began his professional flying career through the Jazz Aviation Pathways Program. He served as the first officer on Air Canada Express Flight 8646, which tragically crashed at LaGuardia Airport on March 22, 2026, shortly after landing.
The flight, which was operating from Montreal to New York, collided with a fire truck, resulting in the deaths of both pilots, including Gunther. There were 72 passengers onboard, and the crash led to injuries for more than 40 individuals, who were taken to area hospitals for treatment.
Gunther graduated from the Honours Bachelor of Aviation Technology program at Seneca Polytechnic in 2023. His school expressed profound sorrow over his untimely death, 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 are set to be flown at half-mast on March 24 in his honor.
Witnesses and survivors of the crash have praised the pilots for their efforts in minimizing the impact, 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 survivor, Joseph, remarked, “They deserve all the credit for being heroes that day.”
Gunther’s family and friends are mourning the loss of a promising young pilot who was deeply committed to his profession. His brother, Cedric Forest, shared a poignant farewell, 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.”
The incident has raised questions about aviation safety protocols and the measures in place to protect both crew and passengers. As investigations continue, officials are expected to provide updates on the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Details remain unconfirmed, but the aviation community is rallying to support Gunther’s family and honor his legacy as a dedicated pilot.
