FAA Fires ATC Over Timecard Abuses After LaGuardia Crash

Two LaGuardia air traffic controllers left their shifts early the night of the fatal crash, prompting the FAA to move toward terminating them as part of a broader crackdown on early departures and staffing practices. The March 22 collision killed both pilots of the Bombardier CRJ900 and injured dozens, including passengers, crew, and fire crews, as the fire truck crossed the runway to respond to another matter. Investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board continue to examine whether the staffing lapse contributed to the disaster, while the FAA says it will hold employees accountable and is expanding its controller workforce. The National Air Traffic Controllers Association says it is discussing the allegations with FAA leadership and notes the need to address safety and staffing concerns, with some reporting that such early departures were a common workplace practice. The case has drawn broader scrutiny of air traffic control operations and disciplinary measures amid ongoing investigations. Transportation officials emphasize a commitment to correcting systemic issues while the investigation determines the role, if any, that early clock-outs played in the crash.