Aviation officials are conducting a broader review of alleged timecard fraud among air-traffic controllers following a deadly collision at La Guardia Airport in March. Two controllers left work about an hour early before an Air Canada regional jet struck a firetruck, leaving the remaining staff without backup during a period of high traffic volume. The Federal Aviation Administration is moving to fire the two controllers, who officials determined had violated shift rules.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy emphasized that while the vast majority of controllers are dedicated public servants, those who take advantage of the system will face consequences. The practice known as "early shoves" is considered a longstanding industry informal perk, but FAA officials technically amount to defrauding the U.S. government. This incident stems from a culture where managers have often condoned leaving early after busy stretches.

The FAA has taken steps this year to terminate more than 10 controllers for similar allegations. The agency has hired over 2,000 new controllers this year to address staffing shortages. The National Air Traffic Controllers Association maintains that the extraordinary dedication of thousands of controllers who report to work daily should not be ignored amid the investigation into the early departure practice.