A City Shrouded in Remembrance
On the evening of March 19, 2026, the iconic CN Tower in Toronto dimmed its lights in a poignant tribute to two courageous pilots who tragically lost their lives in an accident at LaGuardia Airport in New York. The gesture of turning off the lights for five minutes each hour created an emotional moment, not only for the residents of Toronto but for the entire aviation community. It was a visible symbol of respect, remembrance, and solidarity with the families, friends, and colleagues of those who lost their lives.
The Tragic Incident
The two pilots—Captain Antoine Forest and First Officer Mackenzie Gunther—were involved in a devastating runway collision on Sunday night while operating Air Canada Express flight AC8646. The aircraft, which had just landed at LaGuardia, was in the process of slowing down when it collided with a Port Authority fire truck on the runway. Tragically, both Captain Forest and First Officer Gunther lost their lives as a result of the impact, sending shockwaves through the aviation world and leaving their families, friends, and colleagues in deep grief.
As the lights of the CN Tower flickered in the night, the city took a moment to honor the dedication, bravery, and sacrifice of these two aviation heroes. The tribute was a reminder that the lives of those who serve in aviation—whether flying across countries or cities—are at constant risk, and when tragedy strikes, the community stands united in memory and support.
Captain Antoine Forest: A Life Dedicated to Aviation
Captain Antoine Forest was a Quebec native whose passion for flying began at an early age. From the moment he took to the skies at just 16 years old, he knew he had found his calling. Antoine started his career flying bush planes, gaining experience on small aircraft like the de Havilland Beaver and Otter. With his natural talent and unyielding desire to improve, he progressed over the years to flying multi-engine aircraft, ultimately joining Jazz Aviation as a Captain for Air Canada Express.
His colleagues describe him as someone who never stopped learning, constantly seeking to expand his knowledge and skills to ensure the highest standards in aviation. His commitment to aviation was evident in everything he did—from his meticulous approach to flight training to the care he showed his passengers and fellow crew members. He was a quiet leader who exuded strength, humility, and a deep commitment to the safety of everyone under his care. Antoine’s memory will forever be tied to his incredible work ethic, passion for flying, and unwavering dedication to the aviation community.
First Officer Mackenzie Gunther: A Bright Future Cut Short
First Officer Mackenzie Gunther was part of the next generation of aviation professionals. At just 22 years old, Mackenzie had already made an indelible mark in the industry. He graduated with an Honours Bachelor of Aviation Technology from Seneca Polytechnic in 2023, where he excelled in his studies and displayed a strong understanding of the aviation field. His passion for flying led him to Jazz Aviation, where he joined through their pathways program, eager to make a name for himself in the commercial aviation world.
Mackenzie was described as a dedicated and motivated pilot, a young professional with an infectious enthusiasm for aviation. Those who knew him spoke of his warm personality, kindness, and strong work ethic. Despite being relatively new to the skies, Mackenzie showed an incredible ability to rise to the challenges of the industry, and those who worked with him saw a bright future ahead.
His sudden passing is a reminder of how fleeting life can be, and how even the brightest stars are sometimes taken too soon. Mackenzie’s legacy will continue to inspire other young pilots who look up to him as a role model, knowing that even in the face of loss, his passion for flying will endure.
The Collision and Its Aftermath
The collision at LaGuardia Airport was a shocking and tragic event. The aircraft had landed safely and was slowing down on the runway when the Port Authority fire truck unexpectedly entered the same path. The accident, though still under investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), left everyone reeling. The impact was so severe that both pilots lost their lives immediately, and several passengers sustained injuries, though many have since been released from the hospital.
The news of the crash and the loss of the two pilots was met with widespread grief across the aviation industry, with fellow aviation professionals expressing deep sorrow and respect for the lives of Captain Antoine Forest and First Officer Mackenzie Gunther. Jazz Aviation, where the pilots had worked, issued a statement of condolence, emphasizing their dedication to serving the flying community and the pain that comes with losing such esteemed colleagues.
The Tribute: A City Unites in Remembrance
In a display of solidarity and respect, the CN Tower in Toronto—a global symbol of the city—went dark for five minutes every hour on March 19, a tribute to honor the lives of these two remarkable pilots. As the lights dimmed, residents in the city paused to reflect on the lives of Captain Forest and First Officer Gunther, as well as the risks that come with every flight, no matter how routine it may seem.
The dimming of the CN Tower’s lights wasn’t just a tribute to two pilots; it was a gesture of respect for the entire aviation community, acknowledging the sacrifices made by those who serve in the skies and the families who support them.
The Legacy of Two Heroes
Though Captain Antoine Forest and First Officer Mackenzie Gunther are no longer with us, their legacies live on. Antoine’s journey from bush planes to commercial jets is a testament to his commitment and growth as a pilot. Mackenzie’s bright future and enthusiastic spirit will forever inspire those who follow in his footsteps.
As we remember these two young men, let’s take a moment to reflect on the values they embodied: dedication, hard work, and a passion for excellence. The world of aviation, and all who have been touched by these pilots, will forever be grateful for their contributions.
Rest in peace, Antoine Forest and Mackenzie Gunther. Your wings may have faded, but your spirits will forever soar in the hearts of those who loved you, worked with you, and admired you. ️