US air traffic controllers left work early before fatal crash. The FAA wants them fired

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is taking action to potentially fire two air traffic controllers who left their shifts early before a fatal crash at New York’s LaGuardia Airport in March, according to sources familiar with the situation. This move aligns with the Trump administration's broader effort to punish controllers who leave shifts early or abuse sick leave, according to the sources.

The FAA stated in an emailed statement that it is committed to holding employees accountable and ensuring the safety and efficiency of the National Airspace System.

The crash occurred when an Air Canada Express plane collided with a fire truck shortly after landing on March 22. The aircraft, carrying 72 passengers and four crew members, had taken off from Montreal and touched down at LaGuardia Airport. The plane hit the fire truck, coming to a standstill about halfway down the runway. Both pilots on the plane died as a result of the crash.

The FAA is also conducting a broader review of alleged timecard fraud and is moving to fire the two controllers involved in this incident. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy stated that the agency will not tolerate fraud and is taking appropriate action to hold individuals accountable and prevent unlawful practices from disrupting the traveling public.

The National Air Traffic Controllers Association, the union representing controllers, said it is actively discussing the allegations with FAA leadership, noting that these discussions are the appropriate forum for addressing the matter. A representative for the National Transportation Safety Board said the case is still under active investigation.