FAA Levies $175K Fine on Empyreal Jet for Unsafe Flights with Damaged Aircraft

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has put forward a hefty fine of $175,000 aimed at Empyreal Jet, a Houston-based charter flight operator, accusing it of flying a Hawker 800XP jet under unsafe conditions. This action stems from allegations that the company conducted flights with a jet that was not fit for operation due to critical damage to its rudder, violating aviation safety standards.

In detail, the FAA’s allegations highlight a concerning situation that unfolded over several weeks. Initially, in September 2022, an FAA inspection uncovered significant cracks in the rudder’s exterior of the Hawker 800XP operated by Empyreal. Such damage could compromise the aircraft’s safety, posing serious risks to both passengers and crew. Despite this alarming discovery, in October 2022, Empyreal Jet is accused of reinstalling the same compromised rudder back onto the aircraft instead of replacing it with a new, undamaged part. Even more troubling is the claim that after this “improper maintenance,” Empyreal Jet went on to conduct approximately 31 revenue-generating flights with the aircraft in question, thereby knowingly putting lives at risk.

Compounding the issue, it was reported that Empyreal’s staff falsely noted in the aircraft’s maintenance logs that the rudder had been replaced, which was not the case. This misleading entry could have significant implications, including misleading future maintenance reviews and inspections, further endangering the safety of subsequent flights.

Empyreal Jet, which operates a small fleet that includes two Hawker 800XPs and a Bombardier Learjet 60, and employs around 15 individuals, has been given a 30-day window to respond to the FAA’s enforcement notice. The company’s response, or lack thereof, could shape the outcome of this enforcement action and potentially influence its operational status moving forward. As of now, Empyreal Jet has not publicly commented on the allegations or the proposed fine.

This enforcement action by the FAA underscores the administration’s commitment to upholding stringent safety standards within the aviation industry. It serves as a stern reminder to all air operators of the critical importance of adhering to maintenance protocols and the severe consequences of failing to do so. Ensuring the airworthiness of aircraft is a fundamental responsibility of all carriers, one that is essential for protecting the lives of passengers and the integrity of the aviation sector at large.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ainonline.com