NEW YORK (TNND) — The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is moving to terminate two air traffic controllers who reportedly left their shifts early prior to a runway collision at LaGuardia Airport on March 22.
According to sources, the controllers departed approximately one hour before their scheduled shifts ended, leaving two other controllers without backup during a peak traffic period. This incident occurred as an Air Canada Express jet collided with a Port Authority firetruck, resulting in the deaths of both pilots: Capt. Antoine Forest and First Officer Mackenzie Gunther.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) reported that 39 individuals were transported to hospitals for treatment. A flight attendant was also found on the runway, having been ejected over 320 feet from the aircraft during the collision.
Investigators noted that one controller was managing dual responsibilities while the other was handling a separate emergency at the time of the incident. A final report detailing the cause of the crash is anticipated within the next 12 to 24 months.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy emphasized the agency's stance against misconduct by employees that burdens their colleagues and misuses taxpayer resources. The National Air Traffic Controllers Association stated they are in discussions with FAA officials regarding the allegations, asserting that this is the proper avenue for addressing the issue.