A Dream of Flight from the Start
For Captain Antoine Forest, aviation was more than just a career choice—it was his calling from the very beginning. At the age of 16, he first took control of a bush plane, setting the stage for a lifetime devoted to the skies. Born and raised in Coteau-du-Lac, Quebec, Antoine’s early years were shaped by his love of nature, spending long summers near the Ontario border fishing, exploring, and most importantly, gazing at the sky, dreaming of the freedom and adventure of flight. For Antoine, the skies never stopped calling, and he devoted himself entirely to answering that call.

Antoine’s path was clear. His passion for flying was evident from the start, and he went on to pilot some of Canada’s most iconic aircraft, including the de Havilland Beaver and Otter. These planes, known for their resilience and ability to handle tough Canadian terrain, mirrored Antoine’s own spirit—steadfast, resilient, and driven. He built his skills and reputation meticulously before transitioning to multi-engine aircraft, always pushing himself further, never satisfied with just flying, but mastering the skies.

Eventually, Antoine’s dream took him to Jazz Aviation, where he proudly flew as a First Officer under the Air Canada Express banner. Operating out of Montreal, he was living the life he had always envisioned. Antoine’s loved ones often said, “Flying wasn’t just something he did, it was who he was.” Aviation wasn’t just his profession, it was his passion, his very identity—a constant force that shaped his every move and defined his character.

The Tragic Loss of a True Aviator
Tragically, Antoine’s lifelong journey in the skies was cut short on a routine flight. On March 14, 2026, after completing a standard landing at LaGuardia Airport in New York, the aircraft, still slowing on the runway, collided with an airport emergency vehicle. The impact was severe, claiming the lives of both pilots and leaving dozens of passengers injured. The images from the scene showed extensive damage to the cockpit, a devastating reminder of the inherent risks that aviation professionals face every day—risks that even the most experienced pilots, like Antoine, must carry, even during the final stages of a flight.

The suddenness of this tragedy is a cruel reminder that in aviation, even when the flight seems nearly complete, danger can strike without warning. Antoine’s loss is felt deeply not just by his family and friends, but by his fellow aviators, passengers, and the broader aviation community. His passion for flying, his commitment to his craft, and the dedication he brought to every flight have left an indelible mark on the world.

A Legacy of Dedication, Passion, and Love for the Skies
Captain Antoine Forest leaves behind not just a remarkable career, but a legacy defined by his love for aviation. His passion for flying was a constant throughout his life, and he will forever be remembered for his dedication, his skill, and the joy he found in the skies. Antoine’s journey as a pilot was about more than just the hours he logged in the cockpit; it was about a lifelong pursuit of excellence, a constant drive to be better, and a commitment to the safety and well-being of every passenger he flew.

Antoine’s family, friends, and fellow aviators remember him not just as a pilot, but as a man of character, someone whose life was built on values that extended far beyond the cockpit. He was someone who loved deeply, cared for his community, and made those around him feel valued. His humility, respect, and unwavering professionalism were qualities that earned him admiration from his peers and affection from his family.

A Community United in Remembrance

Antoine’s untimely death has left a gaping hole in the lives of those who knew and loved him. But his memory lives on through the legacy of dedication he leaves behind. The aviation community, his family, and all those who crossed paths with him in his life now stand together in grief, mourning the loss of a man who dedicated his life to his craft and to others.

As we reflect on Antoine’s life, let us remember the sacrifices made by those who fly not just for the adventure, but for the service of others. Let us hold Antoine’s family close in our thoughts and prayers as they navigate this heartbreaking loss. His love for aviation, his dedication to his passengers, and his unshakable sense of duty will continue to inspire future generations of aviators.

Rest in Peace, Captain Antoine Forest
Your wings may be gone from this world, but your spirit will forever soar above it. Thank you for your service, for your passion, and for the legacy you leave behind. Your contributions to aviation will never be forgotten, and you will always be remembered as a hero of the skies.

We stand united in remembrance. Share your messages of support for Antoine’s family, friends, and fellow aviators as they mourn the loss of this incredible individual. Wherever you are in the world—whether you represent Air Canada Express or any other airline—today, we honor Captain Antoine Forest and all he did to make the world a better place.