Based on the damage and location, police say it appeared at the time the object may have fallen from an airplane.

Air traffic control is a demanding career. Only 57% to 73% of trainees graduate, but those who do can earn an average pay of $160,000, before bonuses.

The FAA did not agree to a recorded interview for this story, but in a written statement it said that growing the controller workforce is “a top priority for the FAA.” It also highlighted that more than 8,300 people recently qualified to take an aptitude test, which is an early step in the process of becoming a controller.

Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy is hoping that bonuses for new recruits and controllers near retirement will speed efforts to reduce a 3,000-person shortfall.