Asia Pacific Airlines (Guam) Challenges FAA’s Proposed $2.9 Million Fine Over Alleged Violations
In a significant development, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has proposed imposing civil penalties totaling $2.9 million on Asia Pacific Airlines (Guam), a cargo carrier based in Guam, citing a series of alleged regulatory breaches during 2022. The airline, however, disputes these allegations, emphasizing that they had previously resolved the issues in question.
On April 10, the FAA detailed multiple alleged infractions by the airline, including the employment of unqualified pilots for 163 flights, unauthorized flight operations, and equipment-related issues. Furthermore, the agency accused the airline of inadequate documentation regarding engine monitoring and safety evaluations. Asia Pacific Airlines has been given a 30-day period to formally respond to these allegations.
In response to the FAA’s assertions, Adam Ferguson, the President of Asia Pacific Airlines, expressed confidence that the issues would be resolved swiftly, possibly by the end of the week. Ferguson highlighted the airline’s proactive measures over the past 11 months, working in collaboration with the FAA and technical partners, to address the issues. He also noted a recent flawless evaluation of the airline’s operations by the FAA and an independent auditor.
Ferguson pointed out the critical role of Asia Pacific Airlines in providing essential cargo services to remote Pacific islands, delivering crucial supplies such as food, medicine, and other goods. He underscored the airline’s unblemished safety record over the past 25 years and its commitment to resolving the current dispute promptly.
The FAA’s proposed fines include $2.4 million for the utilization of unqualified pilots on Boeing 757 flights, $250,000 for operating flights without proper authorization, $150,000 for flights that did not meet equipment standards, $64,000 for failing to document engine monitoring, and $8,000 for breaches of safety risk management protocols.
This dispute follows a challenging period for Asia Pacific Airlines, which saw its fleet grounded for three months in early 2023 after the FAA revoked its operating authority due to training deficiencies. The airline resumed operations in May 2023 after the FAA reinstated its license following successful proving flights. This grounding had significant repercussions, leading to a state of emergency in the Marshall Islands due to a severe goods shortage.
Asia Pacific Airlines, a subsidiary of Tan Holdings Corporation, operates a fleet that includes Boeing 757 freighters and is anticipating the delivery of an additional aircraft. The airline remains a pivotal player in the aviation industry across several Pacific regions.