On March 22, 2026, an Air Canada Express flight 8646 collided with a fire truck at New York’s LaGuardia Airport shortly after landing, resulting in the deaths of two pilots and serious injuries to six people on the ground. Earlier that evening, two LaGuardia air traffic controllers left their shifts about one hour early, according to sources citing the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
FAA Disciplinary Actions Against Controllers
The FAA is preparing to terminate the employment of the two controllers who departed before their scheduled shift ended, increasing the workload on the remaining controllers during already demanding conditions. The agency regards this unauthorized early departure
as “timecard fraud,” known informally in the industry as an “early shove.” In 2026, the FAA has fired more than ten controllers for similar abuses and has hired over 2,000 new controllers, reaching approximately 94% of its annual hiring target to address staffing shortages.
Weather and Traffic Conditions on March 22
LaGuardia Airport experienced more than twice its normal air traffic volume on the day of the accident due to rain and thunderstorms. The two controllers leaving early exacerbated the staffing strain amid high traffic levels, complicating air traffic management just as the Air Canada Express flight collided with an oncoming fire truck that was crossing a
taxiway in response to another incident.
Official Statements and Union Response
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy condemned the fraudulent practice of leaving early, highlighting that most air traffic controllers perform their full shifts responsibly. He stated, “The vast majority of air-traffic controllers are great patriots — they show up for work, complete their full shift, and come back and do it all again.” Duffy added that the FAA “will not tolerate fraud” and must act when a minority compromise safety by unfairly increasing workloads for others.
The National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) is engaged in discussions with FAA leadership regarding the fraud allegations. The union
emphasized “the extraordinary dedication of the thousands of air-traffic controllers who report to work every day, often under extremely challenging staffing conditions, and remain focused on keeping the flying public safe.” An FAA spokesperson affirmed the agency’s commitment, saying, “The FAA is committed to holding employees accountable, and we will not compromise the safety or efficiency of the National Airspace System.”
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) continues to investigate the collision and has not yet released a final report, which is expected approximately six months after the incident.
