FAA looking to fire air traffic controllers after deadly March collision: Sources

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is investigating the possibility of firing two LaGuardia Airport air traffic controllers who left their posts early on March 22, 2023, just before a tragic collision that killed two pilots and injured others. The controllers allegedly clocked out an hour prior to the crash, according to sources familiar with the probe.

The Air Canada Express jet and a Port Authority fire truck collided in the air, resulting in the deaths of Capt. Antoine Forest and First Officer Mackenzie Gunther, both pilots. Thirty-nine people, including two Port Authority workers in the truck, were hospitalized, with one flight attendant, Solange Tremblay, sustaining leg fractures.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) reported that an investigation is ongoing, and a final cause of the collision has yet to be determined. The agency expects to release a comprehensive report within 12 to 24 months.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy acknowledged that while the vast majority of air traffic controllers are dedicated and committed, instances of misconduct will not be tolerated. The union representing the controllers stated it is discussing the allegations with FAA leadership, emphasizing that they believe these matters should be addressed through official channels.