FAA Moves to Fire Two LaGuardia Controllers Following Fatal March Collision, Source Says

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is moving to terminate two air traffic controllers at New York's LaGuardia airport who allegedly left their shifts early before a fatal runway collision on March 22, a source familiar with the matter told Reuters. The Wall Street Journal first reported the agency's decision.

Action Follows Deadly Runway Incident

The disciplinary action is linked to a catastrophic ground collision at LaGuardia earlier this year. In the March incident, an Air Canada airplane struck a fire truck on the runway, a crash that killed both pilots.

The two controllers facing termination are believed to have departed from their posts before their scheduled shifts had concluded on the day of the accident. The FAA's move to fire the employees underscores the seriousness of the allegations and their potential connection to the fatal event.

Agency and Union Respond

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In a statement regarding its procedures, the FAA affirmed its commitment to safety and accountability. The agency said it "is committed to holding employees accountable, and we will not compromise the safety or efficiency of the National Airspace System."

The National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA), the union representing the controllers, confirmed it was aware of the situation. The association stated it is "actively discussing these allegations with FAA leadership" but declined to provide further comment on the specific personnel matter.

Implications for Airspace Safety

The move to terminate federal employees is a significant disciplinary step, highlighting the gravity of the alleged protocol violations. This development places a renewed focus on staffing and operational procedures within the nation's air traffic control system, a critical component of aviation safety.